NewsNK Autumn 2011

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The newspaper for all North Kesteven residents

Autumn 2011

NK Community Champion Awards Champions of District communities have been awarded and applauded for their tireless and generous contribution to all aspects of life in North Kesteven An unprecedented number of nominations were made for the NK Community Champion Awards by residents keen to celebrate the good work carried out by volunteers in their neighbourhoods.

More than 100 names were put forward for the new-look awards, which for the first time, were sponsored by local businesses equally keen to ensure community endeavour was rewarded.

Winners of the six categories were each presented with a trophy and certificate at an awards event held at the Whisby Natural World Centre, attended by other finalists, civic and community leaders and nominators.

With the support of sponsors, the Council revived the format of its popular awards, which drew more interest than ever before.

Sponsors joined young people and councillors on the judging panel which was so impressed with each nominee’s story that a number of commendations were made.

Council Chairman Ian Cartwright MBE, one of the judges, said: “The NK Community Champion Awards were a wonderful opportunity for local people to say thank you to a special person in their community.

“It is sad that not everyone could win, but certainly all of the nominations were very worthy and typical of the hundreds of individuals, businesses and groups that make a real difference to their communities.”

In choosing these six from the 105 nominations, the judges were looking for sustainability and longevity, impact on individuals and the greater community and whether the person or business had gone the extra mile. > See page 4 for a winner’s story

NK Community Champions

Commended finalists were:

Award winners and guests, from left: Lord Lieutenant of Lincolnshire Tony Worth, NKDC Chief Executive Ian Fytche, Branston Ltd director Simon Telfer, NKDC Chairman Cllr Ian Cartwright MBE, Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, Reg Johnson, Mikela Conboy, Keven Roberts, Jim McQuade, RAF Cranwell Station Commander and guest speaker Group Captain Dave Waddington and Joseph Hayat.

Young Achievers Award Sponsored by Pygott & Crone A young person aged 19 or under who has shown amazing bravery or excelled in any way, perhaps under adversity or through leadership.

WINNER: Joseph Hayat, Sleaford Nominated for his outstanding work on the Lincolnshire Youth Cabinet and UK Youth Parliament, their promotion and campaigning on issues relevant to young people’s needs, aged 18.

Community Spirit Sponsored by Lindum Group Personal service to the community via hard work, dedication and commitment.

WINNER: Mikela Conboy, Swinderby Described as being ‘at the heart of all thing’s village related’, running the monthly village Link-Up magazine, holding fundraising events, instigating an amateur dramatics group and organising the panto – all whilst suffering poor health herself.

Contribution to the Arts & Culture Sponsored by DPS Any group, school, club, business or individual whose actions have a positive impact on the cultural richness of the District.

WINNER: Jim McQuade, Sleaford Concert Band. Recognised as Musical Director of the group which has raised £25k for charities over five years and taught and encouraged gifted musicians of all ages.

Community Business of the Year Sponsored by Duncan & Toplis A company or sole-trader whose business initiatives have made a difference to their local communities.

WINNER: Branston Ltd Nominated for its support in financing local and wider community projects, educational work with schools on the environment and its measures to reduce the company’s environmental impact.

Contribution to a Better Environment Sponsored by the Lincolnshire Co-op A group, school, club, business or individual whose actions have a positive impact on the environment, locally, in a broader way or globally.

WINNER: Reg Johnson, Billinghay Awarded for leading a volunteer group cleaning up rivers and banks around Billinghay, applying for grants and co-ordinating community volunteers.

Contribution to Sport Sponsored by Leisure Connection A group, school, club, business or person whose actions have a positive impact on sports and physical activity locally.

WINNER: Keven Roberts, Rauceby Recognised for close involvement with Sailability to ‘make disability plain sailing’, promoting, fundraising, enabling and enthusing others to make it a great success at North Hykeham Sailing Club.

Our Communities – pages 6 & 7

Young Achiever: Danielle Billson, Helpringham Ayesha Copelend, Ruskington Community Business: RAF Cranwell Community Spirit: Marjorie Atkinson, Great Hale; Simon Maplethorpe, North Kyme; LIVES first responders, Sleaford; Rod & Annie Munro, New Life Community Larder, Sleaford Better Environment: Daniel Tarry, Heckington Lollycocks Field Volunteer Group Arts & Culture: Patrick Banister, Heckington Jean Towers, Waddington Sport: Andy Dunlop, Swaton Dennis Pell, Helpringham Also nominated were: Community Spirit: John Bennett, Heckington; Juneta Wilson, Billinghay; Ann Colclough, North Kyme; Janet Horne, Ruskington; Russell Woodhouse, Timberland; Susan Brooke, Swinderby; Michael Brett, Heighington; Margaret Gray, wasingborough; Helen Ash, Bassingham Better Environment: Kelly Harrison, Skellingthorpe Arts & Culture: Jack Stone, North Hykeham Sport:Thelma Pell & Laffletics team, Sleaford

Our Economy – page 10

 01529 414155 / 01522 699699  info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Our Homes – page 11

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

inside newsnk is your newspaper The newspaper is edited by the Communications Team at North Kesteven District Council.

Each issue costs 6.3 pence to produce and print and 9.75 pence to deliver direct to your door.

Editorial Phone: 01529 308116 Email: communications@n-kesteven.gov.uk Address: North Kesteven District Council District Council Offices, Kesteven Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF Council Enquiries Phone: 01529 414155 or 01522 699699 if calling from a Lincoln number Minicom: 01529 308088 Emergency: 01529 308308 or 01522 699650 Website: www.n-kesteven.gov.uk Email: customer_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk Lincolnshire County Council: 01522 552222 INFO-LINKS North Hykeham North Kesteven Centre, Moor Lane, North Hykeham, Lincoln LN6 9AX INFO-LINKS Metheringham 15a High Street, Metheringham, Lincoln, LN4 3DZ Billinghay Cottage & Parish Office The Old Vicarage Cottage, Church Street, Billinghay, Lincoln, LN4 4HN Branston Connect Branston Community Library, Station Road, Branston, LN4 1LH Heckington Parish Office Eastgate, Heckington, NG34 9RB Navenby Village Office 19 High Street, Navenby, Lincoln, LN5 0EN Osbournby Village Hall London Road, Osbournby, Sleaford, NG34 0DG Skellingthorpe Village Office Lincoln Road, Skellingthorpe Community Centre, Lincoln, LN6 5UT The Witham Office 16 Torgate Lane, Bassingham, Lincoln, LN5 9HF Waddington Parish Council High Street, Waddington, Lincoln, LN5 9RF Washingborough Civic Office Fen Road, Washingborough, Lincoln, LN4 1AB

This document is available in large print, Braille, audio, electronic formats such as CD, or in a different language.

Printed on Recycled Paper

2 newsnk Autumn 2011

Harvesting energy Work will start this autumn on the renewable energy plant near Sleaford which will deliver wide community benefits 4

Summer Kick-about Football sessions hit all of the goals as part of village’s anti-social behaviour drive 8 - 9

Filthy Scoundrels BBC films NKDC fly-tipping clean-up team for Filthy Rotten Scoundrels 5

Homing Instinct Find out how you could get on the housing ladder with a HomeBuy loan 11

Master Gardeners Could you sow the seed for others’ gardening success? 7

Bins Ins & Outs Tips on what should go in and what should be kept out of your bins 13

8

Making executive decisions Collective responsibility for the delivery of the Council’s priorities, policies and services falls to the Executive Board Councillor Mrs Marion Brighton OBE has again been elected by the Council as Leader and has chosen Deputy Leader Cllr Mike Gallagher and Cllrs Stewart Ogden, Susan Waring, Geoff Hazelwood and Richard Wright to serve on the Executive Board alongside her.

Their appointments are for up to four years, giving strong direction through to 2015.

Each has specific responsibilities relating to oversight, reporting and involvement in aspects of Council business, but no direct personal decision making powers in those areas.

This ensures the most senior six councillors share collective responsibility on almost every decision taken on behalf of the Council, with Full Council still having final power of ‘sign-off’.

Cllr Mrs Brighton said the new Executive was well-placed to maintain the Council’s local, regional and national standing as a

‘leading, innovative and efficient Council’.

“We have quite a hard programme ahead in the next four years and it won’t be an easy time as we still have a great many savings to make and challenges to face. But I promise you that we will continue to move forward and keep abreast of the times, proving ourselves to be a good district council; for the residents of North Kesteven,” she said.

Each Executive Board Member, detailed in order (left to right) from the photo above, has these service responsibilities.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood Waste Management, Concessionary Travel, Revenues, Accessible Services, Property and Capital Programme, Financial Services, Efficiency and Value for Money Cllr Mrs Susan Waring Younger People, Older People, Leisure Connection, Arts & Leisure, Equality & Diversity,

Council on track to hit its targets North Kesteven District Council was ahead or on track with the delivery of more than three-quarters of its service targets in the last year.

And the success is continuing into this year where after the first three-month period 80% of targets were being met or exceeded.

The Council’s annual performance report for 2010/11 showed that of the 122 indicators overall, 61 (50%) were ahead of target at the end of March, 32 (27%) were on target and 25 (20%) were behind target whilst four (3%) could not be evaluated.

This backs up the position of the Audit Commission which in January confirmed that at NKDC, ‘key services are performing well, satisfaction is generally high as well as having low costs’.

Council Leader Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE said: “North Kesteven is a Council that successfully delivers a range of services, at high quality and low cost. These include culture and sport, economic development, housing and growth, regulatory services, the cleanliness and safety of the District, waste and recycling and, in effective, efficient management of the organisation and its resources’.

“We are extremely proud of our success during the last year and the continuation of this into 2011/12. We were on or ahead of target

in 77% of cases, some by quite a significant margin, which shows excellent performance during a difficult year, right across the board.

“Where we hadn’t achieved our targets we know why and are driving performance forward at the level we would all like to see,” she said.

Specific highlights include: > Despite an increase in volume, all flytipping incidents were cleared in two days, one day ahead of the three-day target. > Housing applications now processed in 8.4 days and the average void period between lettings reduced to 17.5 days > In excess of 99% rent, Council Tax and Business Rates collected. > Improved energy efficiency and reduced consumption from 185 to 142 KWH/m2 per square meter in the Eastgate offices, saving cost and carbon output. > Construction begun on 117 affordable homes in the year, against a target of 100. > Successful intervention in helping homeless families 33% up on the target figure. > Composting, re-use or recycling of household waste at 53.1%, considerably higher than the national average of 40.3%. > Visitor numbers for The Hub National Centre for Craft & Design were close on 100,000, a significant achievement, and satisfaction levels were 93% for the year.

Hard to Reach Groups and Human Resources Cllr Mike Gallagher Development Control, Forward Planning, Emergency Planning, Community Safety, Transport Initiatives and Anti-Social Behaviour Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE Economic Development, Tourism, Accessible Services, Communications, Performance Management and Corporate Planning Cllr Stewart Ogden Housing Strategy & Management, Benefits, Heritage, Parish Partnerships, Elections and Member Development Cllr Richard Wright Environmental Services, Licensing, Street Scene, Sustainability, Building Control, Enforcement, Flood & Drainage Management, Trees and Open Spaces They can be contacted at the Council on 01529 414155 or via www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Councillor’s dedicated service remembered Former District Councillor Barry Singleton is being remembered as a ‘hard-working and much-respected’ public servant.

Mr Singleton died at the end of July after battling a long illness with dignity and courage.

He had represented Sleaford’s Quarrington & Mareham Ward at NKDC since 1999, giving 12 years continuous, dedicated and loyal service, up until retirement in May. He was also a member of Lincolnshire County Council for 10 years and was latterly Deputy Leader there. He was also a Director of Sleaford BID and an active member of the town’s regeneration group.

At North Kesteven he dedicated his skills in a number of areas including the NK Access Group, Audit Committee, Planning Committee and two overview and scrutiny panels.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton said: “Barry was a significant member of the Council, whose enthusiasm and sense of purpose were greatly respected by all. His drive, knowledge and straight-forward nature were especially invaluable in the key post of chairman of the Council’s Audit Committee where he made a significant contribution in striving for value for money and efficiency in all areas.”

News Focus

Don’t lose your vote in 2012 You never know when an election may be just around the corner, so it’s important to make sure you’re registered to vote.

As well as regular national and local elections, there are occasional polls for all manner of reasons including one next year relating to the police.

This is why it’s essential to ensure you are always registered to vote, which couldn’t be simpler.

Every autumn the annual canvass takes place, with voter registration forms due to drop through letterboxes all across the District very soon.

By completing and returning it you’ll ensure your eligibility to vote at any elections in the coming year.

If there are no changes to the details listed on the form, you can save the Council money by using the online or phone automated response service. Otherwise changes need to be made on the form and returned using the pre-paid envelope provided.

An important change to the canvass this year relates to the two versions of the register. There is the full register which has tightly controlled use for specific purposes, including credit checks.

An edited version can be bought and may be used for direct marketing. In order to opt-out of this, it is essential that you tick the box to request your name does not appear on the edited version.

It is important to remember that you can only vote if your name is on the current register. The revised electoral register will be published on December 1.

If you don't receive a form, please call 01529 414155 or email electoral_services@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Broadband bid is successful A county-wide bid for £14.3m to secure faster broadband for Lincolnshire has been successful, but NKDC still wants residents to maintain their lobbying stance.

The latest bid will help to ensure better provision by 2015, but since the Council is always arguing the case for better digital connectivity, further evidence is needed to show how significant the need is locally.

To strengthen the case, residents, schools and businesses are being urged to complete a short survey at any time to give a better insight into current levels of access.

Surveys should be completed at both www.onlincolnshire.org and at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk using the link to Digital Connectivity Survey. Or do it at Community Access Points across the District, detailed on page 2.

District tops the tables once more Prompt payment by residents and efficient enforcement has resulted in NKDC collecting in more Council Tax than any other authority in England After being placed joint-first last year, NKDC is now the single best performer for Council Tax collection, drawing in 99.4% of its dues in 2010/11.

The Council has been in the top ten for more than a decade.

Council Leader, Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE said: “It gives the Council great pride to have only £332,000 outstanding from a Council Tax debit of £45.9m at the end of the year.”

“Our success cannot go without thanks to our residents who understand the importance of their responsibility to pay their charges on time.”

NKDC collects sums on behalf of the county, town and parish councils as well as the police and allocates the money, retaining only 9.4 pence in every pound to deliver NKDC’s services.

Most residents (78%) pay by direct debit and the Council also has a very good recovery process in place to take firm but fair action against people who

default on payments.

There are also support measures in place to help with payments and good partnership with enforcement agents for times when prosecution against debtors is required.

Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, who has Executive oversight of revenues said: “Our continued success wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated team of officers administering the collection from initial billing right through to representation at the Magistrates Court.”

As well as collecting Council Tax and Business Rates within North Kesteven, NKDC also collects Business Rates for West Lindsey District Council and carries out their enforcement, and is now part of a shared service with the City of Lincoln.

The Council can help anyone struggling to pay with guidance on payment plans.

Call on 01529 414155 or visit www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

Amnesty on single person discount ahead of tax audit An audit will be carried out during September to ensure that everyone claiming single person discount on their Council Tax is eligible to do so.

North Kesteven District Council gives a 25% discount on council tax bills to 13,703 of its 47,000 households, where there is only one resident adult at the property. On average this is worth £345 in each case.

To ensure that no one is claiming discounts they are not entitled to, the Council is cross referencing its Council Tax information with other databases to identify cases where more than one adult is resident at a property despite it being awarded a single occupancy discount.

Last time NKDC carried out this exercise, in 2009, it was found that the discount was being claimed fraudulently in 359 cases, which was a 2.9% hit on the 12,551 cases examined. The resulting additional revenue collected amounted to £126,587.

In advance of the audit the Council will operate an amnesty where anyone notifying their changed circumstances will be excused the £70 penalty; otherwise it

is a legal requirement to tell the Council within 21 days if they think they are no longer entitled to discounts.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive member with responsibility for benefits, said: “We believe most discounts are claimed honestly and legitimately but we know there are times when a household’s circumstances change and people forget to tell us that their eligibility to a discount should have ended.”

“But there is a minority who believe they can cheat the system and claim discounts they know they’re not entitled to, which is unfair on everyone else and we intend to catch them through these checks.”

The Council stresses that while cracking down on fraudulent claims, it still wants to ensure that everyone gets the discounts they are entitled to. Call on 01529 414155 to discuss your circumstances or see the booklet issued with this years bill.

Similar checks are being carried out simultaneously by Lincoln City Council, a partner with NKDC in a new joint revenues service.

Natural beauty is found again on Millennium Green More Fit for Life North Hykeham’s Millennium Green has gone from strength to strength since the District Council took ownership in the spring.

Now maintained by the Council’s WatchNK partnership, it has seen the start of a new facelift; with an official plaque to mark its title, tree surveys carried out, dead foliage removed, new litter bins installed and a wildflower meadow introduced, all of which have added to the beauty of the area.

Removal of some unsightly and oppressive conifers was prompted by neighbours of the green who were unable to take in the views.

New information boards are popping up all over the green, giving visitors an insight into the natural benefits of the area and what grows and lives there. It is hoped the new wildflower meadow will encourage butterflies, grasshoppers and other wild creatures to move in.

Distinctive birds have been spotted in the area including the Great Crested Grebe, Long Tailed Tit and the Chaffinch, while boxes nested in the trees provide a perfect hideaway for resident bats. New boards are being designed to help visitors identify the different flora and fauna at the Green.

Lincoln Conservation Group has been supporting the WatchNK rangers to maintain the area – collecting 25 bags of rubbish in one day in early August – but help is always needed. If you wish to become a volunteer contact Steve Donagain, Hill Holt Wood’s Project Director on 01636 892836.

Hill Holt Wood wins forestry award North Kesteven District Council’s partner, Hill Holt Wood has won a top award in a premier forestry competition.

Hill Holt Wood is a small Social Enterprise charity based in woods at Norton Disney, from where it provides NKDC’s Countryside Rangers, WatchNK, and a range of open space maintenance and fly-tip clearance services.

Through its hard work and dedication the charity has been awarded the Community Forestry Award by The Royal Forestry Society for its excellence in forestry.

In a further extension of the partnership, Hill Holt Wood and NKDC are introducing a new Stepping Out Walk around the woodland, which is detailed on page 14.

Students identify future needs In October the Central Lincolnshire Joint Planning Unit will be teaching children from North Kesteven schools about the work behind the committee, how the planning system works and what needs to be planned for the future of the area.

As part of NKDC’s annual Local Democracy Week events the Joint Planning Unit will be opening up the views of students between the age of 13 and 14, engaging them in the planning process and how working with organisations, like the Environment Agency helps the process run smoothly.

A fourth Fit for Life NK course will start operating in Walcott soon, giving people chance to shape up for autumn.

The 12-week course starts on Wednesday, September 14, at Walcott Village Hall, 10.30am to 12.30pm.

While it is open to anyone over the age of 18, applications from people with responsibility for children under the age of five will be given first consideration. Those without children are still encouraged to apply.

It is free to all and there is a free crèche if required. Transport can also be provided if none is available.

The course is operated by the NK Health Trainers who have enjoyed great success with earlier schemes in Billinghay, Sleaford and Witham St Hughs, all aimed at people who want to lose weight and/or improve their fitness levels through healthy lifestyle changes.

Call Debbie or Andy on 07733 368676 or 07798 925860 to apply.

The POD playbus will be out and about at various locations all across the District this autumn.

To find out if the POD will be near you look it up on www.facebook.com/thepodnk call 01522 870252 or email nkyouthoutreach@leisureconnection.co.uk newsnk

Built in 1907 by Bass and operational through to 1959, the Maltings are Grade II* listed as among the top 10% of listed buildings in the country. They are uniquely significant in terms of scale, technological innovation, exceptional build quality and their impact on the landscape.

In their heyday they represented the life and vigour of the town and that is how they are foreseen for the future as a bustling hive of commercial, residential and business industry. local environmental improvements.

Each scheme represents around £50m of investment and would generate around 500 jobs - as well as inspiring other retailers and developers to bring their business to Sleaford.

The link road is a significant factor in the success of the Maltings project as it is to easing current congestion and traffic flow issues.

As a landmark building, the Maltings is the flagship to the wider regeneration package proposed for Sleaford through the ‘Sleaford Forward’ initiative.

The permission for redevelopment secures most of the 110-year-old building intact and restores, extends and enhances it to provide 204 appartments, restaurant, retail, office and healthcare space, parking and 24 new houses.

NKDC has invested seven years in working out the perfect solution for the

Our Homes – page 13

Maltings complex which preserves its past and protects its future.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE said the Maltings’ redevelopment was of ‘great strategic and economic significance’ for Sleaford, and that part of the town especially, and would ‘act as a catalyst for wider investment in the town as a whole’.

“As well as creating around 500 jobs through the significant employment space being provided, it creates additional housing opportunities and improves the historic environment by restoring the buildings and bringing them back into economic use.

“So much of our vision for Sleaford to once again fulfil its potential and function efficiently as a thriving market town rests on The Maltings.

It is integral to the wider South East Regeneration which, when taken

together, represents the biggest and most economically significant commercial investments Sleaford has seen since the opening of the Navigation more than 200 years ago.”

Extensive measures have been taken to preserve as much of the iconic building as possible, with Block One conserved completely intact, parts of the industrial architecture retained as heritage displays, original iron windows preserved with financial support from English Heritage, repair and retention where possible and only partial demolition of fire damaged blocks to house parking.

Our Communities – pages 6 & 7

Sleaford Forward Our town, our future

Ian Carrington OBE Inverinain, Brighton Canwick, Mrs Marion Hall Drive, 2RG Council) Road, LN4 (Leader of Farm, BardneyLN4 1AQ Lincoln,521629 New Lodge Lincoln 01522 Washingborough, Moor Hykeham 01522 790438

North Hykeham

John Bishop Walk, 16 Sharp North Hykeham, 9TP Lincoln, LN6 01522 509711

North Hykeham

Witham

Ross Little Road, 212 Lincoln North Hykeham, 8NJ Lincoln, LN6 07825 681541

Holdingham

BEM Peter Haysum Grove, 5 All Saints Sleaford, 8AZ Lincs, NG34 01529 304395

Sleaford

Navigation

David Suiter Way, 20 Stephens Sleaford, 7JN Lincs, NG34 01529 306950

Ogden Howell, Mrs Gill Farmhouse, Howell Fen Sleaford, 9PJ Lincs, NG34 01529 460094

MBE Mrs Pat WoodmanChurch Road, The Old Vicarage, Lincoln, Aubourn, LN5 9FB 01522 788236

Howe Mrs Sue Oak, 12 Badgers Bassingham, 9JP Lincoln, LN5 01522 788496

Whittle DFM Geoffrey Road, 142 WestcliffeSleaford, Ruskington, 9AY Lincs, NG34 01526 833433

of of meetings Council Calendar District to North important body, it is be as closely involved North Kesteven

Heckington

democratic feel they can and accountable as possible. attend and, in most that residents As an open District Council making processto the public to Kesteven are open giving prior notice. in the decision but meetings by confidentially, and informed almost all the beginning to be dealt with For this reasonask questions at has business can public discussion. in a number cases, they circumstances some of open and working together In certain principle members there is a group by otherwise are taken by elected the controlling Decisions chosen from most key decisions. making six councillors, of ways. direction, a Full Council Board of capacity Executive to steer policy and sitting as > As the in Leader in a quasi-judicial of 43 Councillors the Council hearing sittingnon-Executive Members in certain Full membership or licensing the > As the committee which involves policies and progress > As a planningand scrutiny panel decisions, > An overview assessing and reviewing

Peter Burley Road, 49 Grantham Heath, Bracebridge 2LE Lincoln, LN4 01522 827365

Mike Powell Street, 13 Bridge Billinghay, 4HW Lincoln, LN4 01526 860527

Eagle, Swinderby St Hughs and Witham

Eagle, Swinderby St Hughs and Witham

Cliff Villages

Heckington

Rural

Rural

Cliff Villages

Conway Mrs Laura 37 High Street, Navenby, OEE Lincoln, LN5 07557 634303

Leasingham

David Dickinson House, The Manor Sleaford Evedon, 9PA Lincs, NG34 01529 307433

Wells MBE Mrs Barbara Scarle, Mayfield Lane, North 29 Chapel 9EX LN6 Lincoln, 01522 778249

Appleby Mrs Sally Lincoln Lane, 27 Aventine, the Hill, Thorpe on 9BH Lincoln, LN6 01522 681159

Overton Mrs MarianneWelbourn, Hilltop Farm, Lincoln, LN5 OQH 01400 273323

and Rauceby

North Hykeham

Stewart Ogden Member) Board Howell, (Executive Farmhouse, 9PJ Howell Fen Lincs, NG34 Sleaford, 01529 460094

Key Andrew Grange, Wadeley Road, Heckington, 9RS 52 Kyme Lincs, NG34 Sleaford, 01529 461161

North Hykeham

Forum

Memorial

North Hykeham

Mill

Metheringham

Metheringham

Rob Kendrick close, 12 Barley Waring Mrs Susan Board Member) Moor Metheringham, 3XB (Executive Lincoln, LN4 Cottage, Leasingham 8JW Pear Tree 01526 323364 Lincs, NG34 Sleaford, 01529 414632

John Money House, Grangeley 3AZ Lincoln Road, Lincoln, LN4 Blankney, 01526 320323

Clarke Miss Andrea Gardens, 50 Heather North Hykeham, 8RQ Lincoln, LN6 07557 634302

Lee Wallace Close, 14 Thirlmere North Hykeham, 8ES Lincoln, LN6 01522 686592

Barrett Mrs Kay Park Close, 2 Windsor North Hykeham, 9XZ Lincoln, LN6 01522 686286

Skellingthorpe

SKELLINGTHORPE

WEST

NORTH HYKEHAMWADDINGTON HEATH AND BRACEBRIDGEEAST WADDINGTON

AND HEIGHINGTON WASHINGBOROUGH

Skellingthorpe

Ruskington

EAGLE,

Ruskington

BRANSTON

SWINDERBY AND ST HUGHS

WITHAM

AND MERE

METHERINGHAM

Osbournby AND

Jim Cook Street, 17 North 0DR Osbournby, Lincs, NG34 Sleaford, 01529 455369

Quarrington Sleaford and Mareham

Terry Boston Close, 36 Poplar 9TL Ruskington, Lincs, NG34 Sleaford, 07557 634299

Quarrington Sleaford and Mareham

Summer 2011

Sleaford

Castle

Keith Dolby 35 Meadowfield, Sleaford, 7AZ Lincs, NG34 07796 315278

Ron Oxby Road, 11 Washingborough Heighington, 1QW Lincoln, LN4 01522 826706

North

Mill

Clark Ms Helen Close, 12 Mercury North Hykeham, 9FH Lincoln, LN6 07557 634301

Sleaford

Thorpe Kirkby La Kyme and South

and Heighington Washingborough

and Heighington Washingborough

and Heighington Washingborough

Frost Miss Joyce 3 High Street, Heighington, 1RG Lincoln, LN4 01522 794242

Ray Cucksey (Vice Chairman) Branston, Road, 88 Lincoln 1NX Lincoln, LN4 01522 794644

Mike Gallagher Leader) (Deputy Hill Top, Mill House, Lincoln, LN5 9RL Waddington, 01522 722705

Cawrey Miss Lindsey Park Lane, 1 The Oakleigh, Heath, Braceridge 2TH Lincoln, LN4 01522 569696

Heath and Bracebridge East Waddington

Martin Billinghay, Kyme and North

Martin Billinghay, Kyme and North

and Bassingham Brant Broughton

and Bassingham Brant Broughton

la Launde Ashby de and Cranwell

Council approval of landmark schemes sows significant seeds for future growth Massive strides have been taken in recent weeks on a number of key projects to secure private investment of around £100m and create 1,000 much-needed jobs in Sleaford.

In close succession, the applications were approved for redevelopment of the Maltings, for a new Tesco store and for the South East Regeneration link road to help ease traffic flow through the town.

Collectively these three initiatives dovetail into what has been described as ‘the most economically significant commercial investments Sleaford has seen since the opening of the navigation’ and they mark the beginnings of a broader vision for long-term regeneration.

Each scheme contributes towards the success of another and is the result of lengthy and detailed negotiations between applicants, interested parties and statutory consultees to ensure delivery of maximum community benefit for the town and further opportunities for regeneration.

As part of its approval, Tesco is obliged to pay for the £12m link road among other benefits totalling around £15m. And as part of the approval for the Maltings, applicants Gladedale must offer up crushed rubble towards the Link Road foundations valued at around £300,000 - which leaves Tesco more to spend on its commitments.

Further community benefits secured through Section 106 agreements on Tesco and the Maltings amount to around £530,000 to improve and promote local transport options, infrastructure and awareness, £10,000 for public art, money for public open space and a number of

la Launde Ashby de your Councilllor 27 and Cranwell Conservative May 5 election the went at the 4 service to councillors came and after long and loyal keenly fought Independent Sleaford Councillors retire came seats through chose to change also lost their as some 4 and others box. In two cases, with Conservative Council join chose to Independent at the ballot contests Councillors of all 43 3 continuing Chamber. associations about as in the Council names and party four years. As your MBE NK Independent the colleagues concerns for the next bring you Ian Cartwright Here we serve you take up your 3 to (Chairman) 67 Sleaford Road, elected to all are available to been chosen Councillors they have shown here, Orwell House,Lincs, NG34 9BL Liberal Democrat a elected representatives the communities at the addresses one also has 2 Ruskington, behalf of and act on can all be contacted and each Independent 01526 834292 Sleaford Skellingthorpe serve. They Council Officers in at: through the Council’s website Branston the own page. section on to find their Branston www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/councillors Heath and to Your Councillor Bracebridge East Follow links Waddington Heath and Bracebridge East Waddington

Contact

Your Council works for you.

Find out who your Councillor is inside

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Town regeneration boost

Mark Allan Close, 11 Crampian Sleaford, 7WA Lincs, NG34 07557 634297

Ian Dolby Rose Cottage, Sleaford, Road, 64 North 7AW Lincs, NG34 01529 306812

Wright Richard Board Member) (Executive Ruskington, 8 Moor Park, NG34 9AJ Lincs, Sleaford, 01526 834994

Quarrington Sleaford and Mareham

Flint Mrs Shirley Close, 23 Goldfinch Skellingthorpe,5SF Lincoln, LN6 01522 688821

Sleaford

Westholme

Chris Goldson Avenue, 70 Swallow Skellingthorpe,5XR Lincoln, LN6 01522 689302

Waddington

West

BASSINGHAM BRANT BROUGHTON

CLIFF VILLAGES

LA LAUNDE ASHBY DE AND CRANWELL RUSKINGTON

LEASINGHAM AND RAUCEBY

SLEAFORD

OSBOURNBY

scrutinising, appropriate. are panels as areas these meetings groups and Up to date guide to when > Other committees, as a useful added and cancelled. on the is intended can be are available meetings as meetings and reports This list of is not definitive agendas, minutes held, but and meetings 12 details of at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/committees Year 2011/ & Resources Overview Council website in the Civic 13, Panel - June 11 Meetings 21, September 29, Performance 7, January and Scrutiny - July November and June 11 13 Full Council December 15, February August 1, 1, February (budget), November and May 10 26 for 3pm in 23, April and Information at 5pm, except in the Council Development Scrutiny Panel These start 14, and are held and Overview December, Sleaford.

15, December at meetings - July 27, October Chamber first two of these 29 the February Either of only if required.

25 Panels and April will be called and Scrutiny 9, July 7, The Overviewat 5pm at the Council Board - June October 6, 13, usually meet Executive Sleaford September 6, January Offices in July 28, 3, December 12, Joint Strategic November 9, March 8, April 6, Central Lincolnshire - June 26, February 5, June 14 Committee Planning May 3 and 2pm in the Council 3, December at October 2 July 25, These start the Sleaford Offices.

6, and April at February Chamber dealing with and committee - meets as This is a matters across Committee members, but it planning West strategic Planning with all at of North Kesteven, the areas Lincoln City. It meets the when required two smaller committees into either across Lindsey and is broken sitting on locations member 10am in various with every or Lafford Planning three areas. the Eastgate 27, Committee.

Panel - June July 14, Tenant Liaison - June 14, 12, November April 23 Planning 18, September February 6 and Eastgate 6, October 23, up of tenant January 26, September January 10, February 29, body made across the This is a 15 November from 3 and May representativesare a Council tenant 21, April you your August District. If - July 5, in representing with the 8, and interested direct discussion Lafford Planning27, November in MARTIN housing officer. neighbours 16, September January 31, March BILLINGHAY, KYME 13, contact your AND NORTH Council, December and June 12 to 24 6, basis as 13, April Panel - July no geographic with what Licensing February 1 There is deals 26, are October which committee or how members up for 18 LA THORPE KIRKBY KYME and April applications residents can sign AND SOUTH but agenda. allocated - June 14, of a committee’s Chamber 21, Council Audit Committee notification 19, November 5pm in the RURAL HECKINGTON September and April 16 All start at offices.

30 January at the Sleaford - July 20, & Community - June Committee Standards January 18 Environment Scrutiny Panel and 12, 30, October Overview 7, November 11 and April 8, September May 30 and March 21

Summer

Geoff Hazelwood Member) Board (Executive Road, 57 Grantham NG34 7NG Lincs, Sleaford, 01529 304931

Brian WatsonCrescent, 6 Sandhurst Sleaford, 7PE Lincs, NG34 01529 307583

2011 newsnk

11

Lance Pennell School Lane, Chiltern Lodge, Canwick, 2RP Lincoln, LN4 01522 541888

Historical, architectural, civic and regeneration agencies line up to support the plans as the most viable long-term future for the Maltings 10 newsnk

Summer

2011

Regeneration East Midlands “This redevelopment has the potential to make a considerable contribution to the regeneration in this area. This is a positive scheme, rescuing and reinvigorating these significant buildings without adversely affecting the character of this striking listed building.”

Society for Lincolnshire History & Archaeology “This is an ambitious scheme to save the complex from stagnation and secure its future.

The Society is anxious to see this development take place as it is the optimum solution for the buildings and a good one for Sleaford.”

Sleaford & District Civic Trust “We are pleased to see this well considered and detailed application and, without dissent, welcome each aspect of the development.”

Lincolnshire Historic Building Committee “The Sleaford Maltings is a magnificent complex; probably the finest range of large floor maltings left in the country. The glory of the Maltings is in their magnificent scale and open setting which should not be diminished.”

Ancient Monuments Society “Given the scale and number of Maltings on this site, successful re-use was never going to be easy.

The Maltings were industrial and stark in their appearance but have certain grace which is retained through this extensive and detailed application.”

Our Economy – pages 14 & 15

Autumn 2011 newsnk 3  01529 414155 / 01522 699699  info@n-kesteven.gov.uk

www.n-kesteven.gov.uk

News Focus

Powering up to harvest straw electricity Work begins soon to bring forward the Sleaford Renewable Energy Plant and its wide-ranging benefits With free heat for the swimming pool in the pipeline, a promised boost to the local economy and enhanced road safety, progress on the straw power station near Sleaford will energise many people.

There are a number of voluntary measures renewable energy firm Eco2 has committed to in addition to the obligations it has under its planning permission which will bring many benefits to the town and wider district.

These will start to be seen in the coming months as the firm begins work on the ground at its Boston Road site to enact its planning permission for a £150m biomass power plant.

With work scheduled to start in mid October, it means that Eco2 no longer needs to seek an extension on its original three year permission window.

The delay is a consequence of the difficulties inherent in raising finance in the current markets.

The expectation is for straw deliveries and power generation to now begin at the end of 2013.

The first task will be to improve the A17 Kirkby-la-Thorpe junction by adding an acceleration lane for traffic heading west, so that it can emerge safely onto the dual carriageway and

enhanced safety barriers to protect pedestrians on the road bridge.

This measure will be of benefit to all motorists, not just site traffic.

The bridge over the A17 will also be modified by adding enhanced safety barriers to protect pedestrians on the road bridge. Work will also begin on the site access at Boston Road, making it impossible for traffic to turn towards Sleaford.

A more in-depth archaeological dig will also take place ahead of construction and more than 10 hectares will be planted up with 3,000 trees, shrubs and grassland species before next April, to improve visual

impact and improve wildlife habitat.

These are all obligations under the firm’s planning permission, and in addition NKDC officers have worked closely with Eco2 to secure a further package of voluntary measures that will benefit the communities of Sleaford and Kirkby La Thorpe.

These include: > District heating Providing free heat from the plant to public buildings in Sleaford like the swimming pool and council buildings, saving on taxpayers’ money and reducing council carbon outputs. > Apprenticeships Local young people will gain skills in engineering

and manufacturing through a £75,000 donation to an apprenticeship scheme, promoting employment opportunities. > Footpaths and cycleways Particularly along Boston Road to give safer, sustainable access between Kirkby la Thorpe and Sleaford and also alongside the Slea beyond Cogglesford Mill > Community fund £120,000 split equally between Sleaford Town Council and Kirkby la Thorpe Parish Council for local use over three years. > Allotment Provision For a plot at Kirkby la Thorpe Primary School. > Sustainable education Provision for

better understanding of biomass as an efficient energy source. > Public art Located at plant entrance.

The plant is designed to generate 40 megawatts of electricity for 65,000 homes as well as providing free heat which is a by-product of the process.

Eco2 says it will be one of the world’s most efficient biomass power stations.

Project Director Dr Andrew Toft said: “On top of all the environmental savings, the project will bring with it significant benefits to the local community and economy and further to the thorough examination and clear undertakings agreed over the transportation aspects, we will be doing everything to ensure minimal impact from the outset.”

Councillor Richard Wright, NKDC’s Executive Member for sustainability, said it was heartening to have progress after such long and detailed negotiations to secure the community benefits.

“Given all of the work the Council has undertaken to reduce energy use and carbon footprint of its own operations, to have access to the generation of clean heat and power provided through local sustainable source has far reaching benefits to residents in reduced cost and pollution.”

Winner always has others in mind Smart work in Sleaford Ironically Mikela Conboy was too busy considering others for the NK Community Awards to even think she might be recognised.

One of her many community roles is compiling Swinderby’s monthly magazine and when she published a plea for nominations she had others in mind but never anticipated fellow villagers might suggest her for her many initiatives which place her ‘at the heart of village life’ after only six years in Swinderby.

“We made a determined effort to get involved and have found that how ever much you put in to village life

you get even more out in friendliness, so this is a real pleasure but it’s not just me who’s involved. I might come up with the ideas but there’s a whole load of people behind the scenes,” she said.

“I’d never have expected to win myself because I know of so many other people who do so much, but I have to admit that it’s really nice to know other people appreciate what we do and think its worthy of an award.

“To be in a room with so many people who’ve all done such brilliant things for North Kesteven is praise enough,” said Mrs Conboy.

Mikela Conboy receives her award from sponsor Neil Coote, NKDC Chief Executive Ian Fytche and Leader Cllr Marion Brighton

Three high-profile areas in central Sleaford were smartened up for the summer, making them more attractive for residents, shoppers and visitors to the town.

A small working party of offenders engaged through Community Payback ploughed its energies into revamping areas in Southgate near the town’s dragon sculpture and railway station, painting the landmark sculpture and street furniture and working on the garden near the Handley Monument.

The Lincolnshire Probation Trust was engaged by NKDC, working with Sleaford BID. Deputy NKDC Leader and chairman of the Community

Safety Partnership, Cllr Mike Gallagher, said the wider community had much to gain from such an initiative.

“Not only has the town been enhanced through the Community Payback work, and at a saving to the public purse, but the new skills and disciplines learnt by the offenders will hopefully stand them in good stead for further public benefit in future,” he said.

He said it was a crucial part of restorative justice that people who had offended against the community were seen to be working for the good of the public, in order to restore faith in those affected by criminal activity within our neighbourhoods.

Future Olympians must LEAP to it

Queen’s Award open to volunteers

Sports honours

With the London Olympics only around the corner, funding can help aspiring Olympians of the future to rise up through the ranks.

District sportsmen and women competing at a national or international level, are being encouraged to apply to the Lincolnshire Elite Athlete Programme (LEAP) for 2012.

This year 50 county athletes have been supported through donations of nearly £10,000 and in the coming

The deadline is looming for entries to the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in her Diamond Jubilee year.

The Office for Civil Society is encouraging nominations, anxious that much of the good works carried out by the voluntary sector within the District goes unsung and unrecognised at a national level.

They can be made at any time, but to qualify for the 2012 Award they must be submitted by September 30.

If you move swiftly there’s still chance to make nominations for the Lincolnshire Sports Awards 2011.

The Lincolnshire Sports Partnership is looking to honour sportsmen and women, volunteers, coaches and educators for one of its 17 awards.

Deadline for submissions is Friday, September 16, for an awards event on November 17.

For category details and an entry form see www.lincolnshiresports.com

4 newsnk Autumn 2011

year the emphasis will be on athletes aiming to compete at an Olympics or Paralympics.

Deadline for applications is Friday, September 30. Details and applications at www.lincolnshiresports.com or call the Lincolnshire Sports Partnership on 01522 585 580.

One of the local athletes already benefitting from the LEAP support is aspiring 2012 Parlympain Kieran Tscherniawsky from Heckington.

The Award recognises outstanding contributions made by volunteer groups in the community. It is the highest national honour that can be bestowed on groups of this kind and is made annually on Coronation Day. Nominations are welcomed from beneficiaries of the group or the wider public, with certain criteria to meet.

Details at www.direct.gov.uk/ thequeensawardforvoluntaryservice or the award office on 020 7781 2300.

News Focus

NKDC’s Environmental Services Team hit the big screen The exemplary work of NK staff regarded as the ‘unsung heroes’ of the Council is being featured in a popular BBC series this autumn The strong stance taken by NKDC against fly-tipping has attracted the attention of the BBC’s Filthy Rotten Scoundrels.

A second series of the popular programme will be screened this autumn, showing daily for three weeks.

It is designed to highlight and educate the public about environmental crimes such as flytipping and showcase how councils like North Kesteven are taking a proactive and determined stance on such issues, in order to create and sustain a healthy, clean local community.

Based on resident recomendations the crew came to the District to discover what makes NKDC so good in tackling environmental crime.

Much of the footage will be observational, following the Direct Labour Operatives day-to-day as they tackle specific incidents, and there

NKDC’s Stuart McDonald with the filmcrew near Doddington

will then be follow-up featuring cases in the latter stages of investigation.

Executive Member with responsibility for waste management, Cllr Geoff Hazelwood, said: “This is a great opportunity to highlight the proactive and robust way in which the Council tackles the issue of fly-tipping.”

The Direct Labour Operatives are involved in many aspects of delivering

Noise Action Week success A week dedicated to awareness of noise and neighbourly nuisance was a real success for the Council’s Environmental Protection Team.

During Noise Action Week displays were held at North Hykeham Town Council, the Sleaford council offices and Sainsbury’s in the town where plenty of advice and information leaflets, fridge magnets, pens, bookmarks, stickers and colouring sheets were handed out.

Sainsbury’s also donated headphones and gift vouchers as prizes in a draw.

Since the events, and ongoing through the summer, the Environmental Protection Team has dealt with enquiries relating to all aspects of noise.

They can be contacted on 01529 414155 in respect of any noise related topics.

if your waste ends up dumped down a lane or dropped into a ditch as such a cheap price rarely covers the cost of proper disposal.

If you are approached, always ask to see evidence of their licence and take details to check their validity with the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506.

One Branston resident discovered the price of failing to be cautious earlier this year, but this could have been anyone.

He put his trust in two ‘scrap men’ who approached him with an offer to take away his rubbish.

It was all found dumped along a nearby lane and the householder had to admit that he’d not made any enquiries to establish their identity or authority to transport waste.

Failure to do this meant that the Council couldn’t pursue the scrap men

House-to-house collection warning

Living Lincolnshire scheme

Packaging resembling charity collection bags is causing confusion among generous charity supporters.

NKDC’s Licensing Team is warning residents to check the validity of any house-to-house collections being made within the District after learning that commercial companies are imitating genuine plastic envelopes.

Such branded bags are often dropped through letterboxes to encourage donations, but firms are increasingly imitating them purely for commercial gain and not for the charitable purpose which the donor would believe they are supporting.

Legitimate small plastic collection

Finding a home they can afford is an unrealisable dream for many people who live and work in rural Lincolnshire.

It’s a problem affecting young people and couples starting out in life, families who have outgrown their home and older residents whose home is now too big for them to manage.

Too often they are left in unsuitable housing; some will be forced to move away and some will become homeless.

Villages suffer too as these people are the lifeblood of villages, supporting family, friends and neighbours, maybe providing childcare or helping an older person; they serve in the local shop and work in local businesses.

Living Lincolnshire is a partnership of district councils, housing associations, county council and Community Lincs, all working together to improve the supply of rural affordable housing and help create thriving villages.

Find out more from the Council’s housing enabling officer or see the advert on back page of this edition.

bags usually feature the charity logo, charity number and details of beneficiaries and sums raised through the sale of donated items.

Charities are required to apply to the District Council for a permit to carry out house-to-house collections, but by not being registered it’s impossible to carry out similar checks on commercial collection companies.

To be certain that your donations are going for charitable use, check the donation bags closely and if they are unsure as to the legitimacy of a company or want to double check, call the Licensing Team on 01529 414155, or licensingteam@n-kesteven.gov.uk

and collection of polling booths at election time and sandbags in times of flooding to maintenance of watercourses in the Council’s ownership and repairs and replacement of fencing at council houses and in public open spaces.

There’s also the more routine work which unfortunately includes the collection and disposal of fly-tipped rubbish two days per week every week, the clearance of empty council homes and disposal of rubbish left by tenants, daily cleaning of public toilets and emptying of parking meters.

Further regular duties can include street nameplate repairs and sign erection, sewer clearance, litter picking and helping with general moving and delivery duties for other departments.

If you are aware of any areas of fly-tipping concern, you can report it to the Council on 0800 174499.

Deals ‘too good to be true’ will cost you dear

A doorstep offer from someone offering to take away your old scrap metal, clear some waste and maybe lop a few trees – and all for a bargain price – all sounds too good to be true.

That’s probably because it is.

You may end up paying for it in the end – with a trip to the magistrates’ court thrown in.

Last year there were more than 1,000 flytipping incidents in North Kesteven, costing you and other the areas’ future. It includes features council taxpayers £97,000 to clear up. such as news and events, details of Some of this waste comes from publications and consultations, who’s trusting residents with an eye for a who on the Joint Planning Committee supposedly good deal. and its meeting dates plus contact But since you remain legally details for the unit and ways to submit responsible for the waste it’s essential questions or comments. that you make reasonable checks Find out more at that the waste handler is properly www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/ldf licensed. Otherwise don’t be surprised

Web link for news of Central Lincs Residents living in Central Lincolnshire will be better informed in planning matters affecting them from later in September thanks to a new website.

The Central Lincolnshire Joint Planning Committee website will help residents of North Kesteven, Lincoln and West Lindsey better understand the processes behind planning for

Council services to the community and fellow Executive Member Cllr Mike Gallagher said they were ‘very much the unsung heroes’.

“Their work is often hard, dirty and smelly. They are out in all weathers and round the clock as required, serving the people of North Kesteven.

Without them, NKDC would not be such a lovely place to live and work.”

Many aspects of the District Council’s work is very visible – like provision of housing, leisure facilities and refuse collection – whilst much more goes on relatively unseen and unsung.

But all of it contributes greatly to making North Kesteven such a great place to live.

Making a significant difference in the efficient running of the Council and the smooth delivery of services at critical times, in emergencies and at more run-of-the-mill moments are the DLO – the Direct Labour Operatives.

Under the supervision of Richard Norton, the three-man team of Peter Clarke, Stuart MacDonald and Andy Moss criss-cross the District with one man in a van and two heading out in a truck.

They respond by and large to issues as and when they emerge dealing with everything from delivery

for unlawfully depositing the waste and he was ultimately found guilty of breaching their duty of care as a householder and ordered to pay fines and costs totalling £280.

Cllr Richard Wright, Executive Member with responsibility for environmental matters said: “The Council recognises the blight fly-tipping causes to our rural communities, and the costs to our residents. We always aim to investigate and prosecute but if householders don’t know who it is that took their waste and it is subsequently dumped, there’s only one line of enquiry.

“We urge people not to get caught out. If they’re going to allow others to dispose of their waste, they must ensure that those carrying out that work will do so responsibly, otherwise the responsibility falls back on them.”

North Kesteven’s

Packed with essential information to help local residents and tourists make the most of the District and with a distribution in excess of 15,000, it’s an invaluable outlet for any business to reach a wide audience.

Containing information and listing for: > Eating out > Accommodation > Caravan and camping > Tourist attractions > Events

Make sure your business is featured in it by calling Pip Batty on 01529 308167 to discuss advertising options Autumn 2011 newsnk 5

To promote the wellbeing, safety and health of North Kesteven’s 100 Flourishing Communities

Our Communities

ClusterNK

Local councils within North Kesteven are grouped into clusters, easing the effective exchange of good practice, ideas and issues Each of the nine cluster areas is The Metheringham Cluster heard a supported by a Parish Partnership presentation on the Emergency Planning Officer with meetings bringing Unit’s role The Community Resilience district, county, town and parish Group made up of emergency services, representatives together quarterly. council officers and the community is The police attended most of the July looking at topics such as winter weather, Cluster meetings to give an update on clearing snow and insurance. Parishes the force’s reorganisation which includes are encouraged to post their plans on the co-ordination of 24 hour response their own websites, which can be set up vehicles from headquarters instead of free through the County Council. locally and the deployment of all officers Planning was discussed at the North on shift patterns. Parishes and towns can West Cluster meeting, covering the now view crime by postcode. decision-making process and how the The Bassingham, Billinghay, NKDC Planning Committee operates.

Cliff, Four Parishes, Metheringham, At the Hykeham Cluster an officer North West, Ruskington and South from Highways discussed traffic of Sleaford Clusters all received a issues relating to the Lincoln Castings presentation on the HELP Insulation development. Concerns were raised Scheme from NKDC’s Housing Renewal about the travel plan. The meeting was Manager. The scheme provides loft told about the range of improvements and cavity wall insulation for free or at the site’s developers must provide to subsidised rates. Parish councils and encourage alternative travel modes to community groups can help residents the car. These include footpaths, on low incomes, who most need to cycleways, rail station improvements reduce fuel bills, to access free insulation and new bus services. through the scheme by referring them At the South of Sleaford Cluster and reassuring them about its legitimacy. discussion took place on the Localism The Cliff Cluster discussed July’s Bill, Big Society and aims to devolve Waddington Airshow which had gone more power and responsibility to local well within the site. However there had communities. Attendees looked at the been traffic issues in the surrounding main issues facing parishes in South roads, due partly to the early closure of of Sleaford, what is already being done one of the gates. All issues raised will be about them, what more could be done discussed by the Waddington Airshow and what the Cluster could do. Main Committee. Discussions also took place issues were improving and maintaining on applying for funding for a youth community spirit and social cohesion, worker to cover the Cliff Cluster parishes. maintaining services and facilities in At the Ruskington Cluster NK’S villages such as pubs, schools and Post Environment Manager discussed Offices, transport provision, speeding, current issues around waste and street parking and dog fouling. Feedback scene. Last year 53% of all household will be summarised and an action plan waste collected from NK residents, produced for consideration by the was recycled. Workshops have been Cluster, at the October meeting. organised with Parishes/Towns to If you have any issue which you Cluster Areas discuss Parish a proposed Service Level would like to address through the Agreement for the funding of litter picking Clusters, please contact your local and dog warden services. town or parish councillors.

COM8205RT_PARISH CLUSTER MAP named:Layout 1 23/05/2011 11:52 Page 1

North Hykeham and South Hykeham

North West

Four Parishes

Skellingthorpe Washingborough

Doddington & Whisby

North Scarle

Bracebridge Heath

North Hykeham

Eagle & Swinethorpe

Heighington

Canwick

Waddington

Thorpe on the Hill

Branston & Mere

Metheringham

Potterhanworth

Billinghay

Nocton

South Hykeham Swinderby Aubourn & Haddington

Witham St Hughs

Harmston

Dunston

Thurlby

Metheringham

Blankney

Coleby Norton Disney

Martin

Bassingham Boothby Graffoe

Stapleford

Walcott

Rowston

Wellingore Brant Broughton & Stragglethorpe

Ashby de la Launde, Bloxholme & Temple Bruer

Welbourn

Beckingham

Timberland

Scopwick

Navenby

Carlton le Moorland

Billinghay

Digby

Dogdyke

Dorrington North Kyme Leadenham

Cranwell, Byard's Leap & Brauncewell

Ruskington

Anwick South Kyme

Roxholm Leasingham

Bassingham

Ewerby & Evedon North Rauceby

Cliff

Sleaford

Wilsford Culverthorpe & Kelby

Parish Partnership Officer Ann Stevenson Anne-Marie Shepherd Sue Chambers

6 newsnk Autumn 2011

Asgarby & Howell

Kirkby la Thorpe

South Rauceby

Ruskington Silk Willoughby

Aswarby & Swarby

Aunsby & Dembleby

Heckington

Great Hale

Burton Pedwardine

Scredington

Osbournby

Newton & Haceby Walcot near Folkingham

Little Hale Helpringham

Swaton

Threekingham

South of Sleaford

Food cart rolls in to schools Cookery lessons are about to take to the road, complete with tips and recipe ideas for healthier meals at home The new school year marks the beginning of a new era in feeding children after school for scores of parents all across the District.

The NK Cooking Cart will circulate around selected schools, dishing up tasty treats and tips on quick, easy and healthy meals for parents waiting to collect children at home-time.

Everyone will get to taste samples before going home – where they can then use a specially commissioned booklet containing a couple of dozen recipes for healthy, wholesome meals making the most of fresh, seasonal, local or home grown ingredients.

The schoolgate sessions are central to the Sow Grow Cook initiative, funded by NHS Lincolnshire under its Choosing Health promotion, which aims to encourage families to cook good fresh food in the home.

Each session will feature members of the NKDC Food Team spending around half an hour cooking three healthy and delicious meals from a custom-built mobile kitchen.

They will also feature tips on food safety and healthy eating, supported by the Food4Life recipe booklet.

There’s also an option of follow-up cookery lessons available on request.

In each half-term three schools will receive two visits each, close to the end of the school day, starting with: > Billinghay CE Primary, on September 13 and October 4 > Ruskington, Chestnut Street CE Primary, on September 30 and October 11 > Ruskington, Winchelsea County Primary, on September 27 and October 18 A week or so before each event parents will be notified of dates and times by a flyer distributed at the gate.

Executive Member with oversight

for health matters, Cllr Richard Wright said it was fitting that the Food Cart’s first day on the road at Billinghay coincided with the Healthy Schools Day. “Over the year our aim is to bring the cart to 18 schools for 36 sessions, each supporting up to 300 families further along the route of affordable healthy eating, boosting confidence and skills, supporting healthier lifestyles and promoting increased consumption of fruit and vegetables.

“It’s an exciting time for such an innovative project and we really hope that it will prove to be a success.”

Martin carves out new addition Tasked teens Villagers in Martin are being invited to carve out new skills in addition to a piece of public art in celebration of the new play park.

To mark completion of the fantastic facilities at North Moor Lane the community is now being drafted in to shape a timber totem.

NKDC has invested significantly in the village’s playing field and, in partnership with the parish council and grant bodies, supported investment of another £100,000-plus in the park to promote adventurous play.

Now the community is putting its design ideas into practice by carving a five-foot-tall elm trunk to feature the images and phrases children devised to show their delight in the new facilities.

Every Saturday afternoon for the rest of the year workshops will take

place onsite for villagers to work with artsNK carving expert Helen Link in crafting a unique welcome marker for the play park.

A similar sculpture is taking shape in Wellingore (pictured) where the village history is being carved onto a 10-foot trunk which Helen says is really uniting the community in the process of making a lasting legacy.

E.coli training for food firms Food businesses in North Kesteven are being briefed on the recommendations of a key report to help safeguard against E.coli O157.

As well as writing to all food preparation, sales and service outlets to highlight key points from new guidance, NKDC’s environmental health officers are holding seminars into the findings of the Pennington report. These will be held at the Sleaford offices on the afternoon and evening of September 14, dealing especially with the control of cross-contamination.

The measures outlined will help in the control of all food poisoning bacteria.

If you are interested in attending, call Environmental Health on 01529 414155.

Communal facilities in a District village have been enhanced by a group of teenagers working as a team through their summer holidays.

With so many of the 16-year-olds engaged in Lincoln’s National Citizen Service project coming from Branston and Washingborough, it was decided that their community project should feature on one of these villages.

The National Citizen Service project ran over four intensive weeks through August, culminating in the team identifying community improvements and them spending 30 hours making their mark on society by carrying out their plans and learning new skills.

The outcome is a series of refurbishments to the new Pavilion which the parish council has installed at the playing field in Washingborough.

Local Member, Cllr Mrs Marion Brighton OBE, said there were so many positive outcomes from this project, which is a local response to a national initiative, not least the formation of friendships, development of new skills and sense of achievement for the participants and the provision of a fabulous addition to life in the community.

Our Communities

Master Gardeners sow project seeds Volunteers are sought to help community growing projects break new ground and to nurture flourishing talents If you know your onions and have enthusiasm, expertise, energy and aptitude in abundance you could be the right person to help households across the District to discover the delights of digging.

A project being operated locally through PartnershipNK is looking to weed out Master Gardeners from within the community to assist others involved in community gardens or at home in learning to grow vegetables.

In total eight volunteers are sought to become Master Gardeners under the programme that’s being managed nationally by the gardening charity Garden Organic and supported locally by the Health & Wellbeing Fund partnership of the county council and NHS Lincolnshire.

In the main the Master Gardeners will each be attached to one of

the community growing schemes operating through NKDC’s Sow Grow Cook initiative, but also make themselves available to assist on a one-on-one level whether you’re growing in a garden, a yard, an allotment or just a pot.

The Master Gardeners will be volunteer enthusiasts who have a couple of years experience and awareness in fruit and vegetable growing to guide, oversee and steer rookie gardeners in the arts of sowing salads, cropping cabbages, protecting potatoes and tending tomatoes to ensure a bountiful harvest.

Rick Aron, co-ordinator for Master Gardeners in Lincolnshire, said it could involve as little as half an hour of hands-on horticulture a week or even being a more remote specialist to advise over the wider project area.

People could be in work, retired or unemployed and any age, so long as they have an ability to support communities and individuals as required over a year or so.

“We don’t expect our Master Gardeners to do the actual gardening, but to demonstrate what needs to be done and how, to be there to help deal with any questions or problems and generally dispense any tips and sage advice that helps others to learn the tricks in growing their own fruit and veg,” he said.

Training will be given at sessions on October 14 and 15 and all out-of pocket expenses paid.

Seventeen Master Gardeners are already operating in East Lindsey and Boston where they have proved hugely successful in imparting knowledge that helps and guides

people through any growing issues.

If you are interested in stepping forward as a Master Gardener in North Kesteven or want to reap the benefits of a Master Gardener’s knowledge through 12 months of free support and advice at home or in a community growing space, call Rick on 07584 474779 or email raron@gardenorganic.org.uk.

Find further details at www. lincolnshire.mastergardeners.org.uk

Communal wishes top kids’ list Better cyclepaths, more bins and repainted play equipment are top of the wishlist for Washingborough children wanting to improve the village for all.

And now, through a partnership supported

by NKDC Children’s Services Officer Jade Warren, the parish council and school council are in regular dialogue to carry forward the pupil suggestions for mutual benefit.

As part of the project, every child in the school was surveyed on their out-of-school activities, their favourite aspects of the village and what they would change if they could.

The response was fantastic, with suggestions of having a zoo, a smoothie bar, a fun fair and swimming pool. But after taking a vote it was found that bins, cycle paths and park refurbishment were their main concerns.

The children have already offered to buy a litter bin for the village with money they have raised in school and the parish council will be

A small show of Big Society in action is being seen in South Hykeham where a group of local residents has teamed together to give the parish church a touch of tender loving care.

They’re not all worshippers but are freely engaged in internal decoration of the church, to be followed by installation of a toilet and refreshment area and remedies to the guttering, roof and stonework problems.

The vision is to bring the church up to date so it can become a resource for the local community to use for wide-ranging functions.

Grants for grabs If you need a grant for a community, conservation or heritage project and it’s located within 10 miles of a landfill site, then try WREN. Grants from £2,000 to £50,000 are available.

Call 01953 714987 or visit www.wren.org.uk

Help your community

flourish...

?

• Would you like to be more involved with your community • Do you have an idea for a new project, group or social enterprise • Does your club or community organisation need support or funding • Want to help out but don’t know where to start

adding another; seeking the school council’s suggestions about siting.

School council member Connor said Washingborough school was placed in the top 10 nationally for improved cycling take-up by pupils and thought more pupils would cycle with better paths and safer places to cross.

The parish council will continue working with

the school council on all three issues and plan to meet reguarly to sustain dialogue. Further work is planned with older children to engage them in their priorities.

Vice-chairman Colin Smith said the parish council would liaise with the county council about cycle crossings and consider more play provision with the budget.

Youth Council working on packed agenda New members have introduced fresh ideas and renewed vigour to the NK Youth Council which has a packed agenda of tasks and topics to tackle over coming weeks and months.

Almost 18 months after being set up, the Youth Council has grown in membership to 18 active young people who are all enthusiastic and eager to represent and reflect the views of teenagers in a positive relationship with North Kesteven District Council.

The Council of secondary-age students meets four times a year, with four sub groups tasked on specialist projects dealing with The Pod timetable and function; the TeenTalk

Parish team

youth magazine which they’ve decided to run online to save money; an interactive Facebook profile; and a Body Image campaign.

On top of this there’s a stream of involvement with consultation, writing up a policy on how the Council engages and participates with young people and hopes of getting more involved in the Council’s policy decisions at an earlier stage to ensure younger residents’ views are fully considered.

The youth council will also be stepping up its interest on the Sleaford Regeneration Group and the Community Safety Partnership’s Street Scene project to promote more consideration with littering and neighbourly nuisance.

Cllr Susan Waring, Executive Member with oversight of younger people, said the Youth Council had established itself as a really positive force in representing the views of young people within the community.

“Every time they meet they get stronger and more effective and have really shaped the group as their own, which was always the intention. Their interaction with the main Council over the budget and priorities earlier in the year was most impressive and I anticipate great things in this coming year.”

Interested in joining the NK Youth Council?

Call Jade Warren on 01529 414155 or email jade_warren@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Come along and find out how you can turn your ideas into action.

These events will include workshops on topics such as getting funding, setting up new groups and finding people with the skills you need.

Workshop places will need to be booked in advance.

To register your interest for these FREE events and get further information about the workshops contact Debra Dawson.

Email: debra_dawson@n-kesteven.gov.uk Telephone: 01529 308024 Post: Debra Dawson, North Kesteven District Council Kesteven Street, SLEAFORD, Lincolnshire NG34 7EF

WADDINGTON

SLEAFORD

Tuesday 20 September 2.30pm - 7pm Waddington Village Hall Mere Road Waddington Lincoln LN5 9NX

Thursday 13 October 2.30pm - 7pm North Kesteven District Council Kesteven Street Sleaford Lincolnshire NG34 7EF

All welcome

Light refreshments will be available

partnershipnk working together in North Kesteven

North Kesteven District Council

Autumn 2011 newsnk 7

Community Safety

Beating Anti Social Behaviour in North Kesteven Although North Kesteven now has the lowest rate of violent crime in the country there are many other community safety concerns shared by the public. One of these is anti-social behaviour where a package of preventative measures ensures positive co-operation and a relatively low incidence of neighbourly nuisance. This is all co-ordinated by the North Kesteven Community Safety Partnership whose wide-ranging work is profiled on these pages

The CSP in a nutshell

Patrolling by pedal power

The Community Safety Partnership (CSP) is a group of local organisations committed to making North Kesteven a safe place to live work and visit.

It aims to tackle the root causes of crime, disorder and substance misuse by empowering residents and helping them feel safer within their communities.

Through its three year plan the group has identified priorities based around antisocial behaviour, substance mis-use, theft from shops and domestic abuse.

Partners on the CSP include NKDC, the police, fire service, probation service, Criminal Justice Board, Primary Care Trust and Lincolnshire County Council.

Pedal power is back for bobbies on the beat, right across North Kesteven.

By recycling ten bikes which have been recovered and refurbished and using a further ten bought by the NK Community Safety Partnership using an energy firm’s grant aid, community police officers in North Kesteven are getting back into the saddle for their patrols.

These 20 bikes are being used across all community policing teams, where they contribute to increased police visibility and reduced carbon footprint by cutting down on car usage.

The CSP bought half of the fleet of specialised Hardrock mountain bikes with the support of regional energy distributor Western Power’s ‘keen to be green’ environmental fund.

The other bikes have been put up by the police by recycling some previously bought for their use by parish councils and others which were recovered from being stolen but not re-claimed.

Inspector Mike Jones, who is patrolling by pedal power himself now, said: “The Community Safety bikes are a fantastic compromise between the need for speed and the need for accessibility, a police officer on a bike can travel quicker than on foot and is much more accessible on a bike than

At NKDC

The Anti-Social Behaviour Team has moved into the Housing Partnerships & Communities section where the CSP’s preventive work can better link into enforcement.

Across Lincolnshire

Lincolnshire is a pilot area for the Home Office’s new approach to recording antisocial behaviour. Lincolnshire Police and their partners including NKDC are using a new software package which allows every organisation that works with offenders and victims to share information with each other to ensure a

joined-up approach to tackling ASB and protecting victims.

In England and Wales

The Coalition Government is changing the powers given to organisations working to tackle anti-social behaviour and simplifying penalties under a single Criminal Behaviour Order.

In a bid to increase residents’ powers, the Home Office is developing a “Community Trigger” with which local people can hold organisations to account if they don’t think they are doing enough to tackle ASB in their community.

What is anti-social behaviour?

As defined by the Home Office, anti-social behaviour is, “Acting in a manner which causes, or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to one or more persons not of the same household”.

This could include > Behaviour targeting perceived differences in race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, mental health or disability. > Verbal abuse > Intimidation or assault > Noise > Criminal behaviour > Environmental issues > Violence against people or property > Alcohol-related behaviour This list is not exhaustive, but gives an indication of the types of complaints

that can be dealt with by the Council as even at its lowest levels, ASB can have a serious impact on those subjected to it.

How to report Anti Social Behaviour There are a number of ways you can report ASB, by phone, email and online. Whether you call Lincolnshire Police or NKDC you’ll receive the same service as all information and minimum standards are shared.

In an Emergency – 999 ASB Hotline – 01529 308100 ASB@n-kesteven.gov.uk If possible, do send a photograph of any damage caused. www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/safenk For more information on ASB pick up a leaflet from NKDC or see www.n-kesteven.gov.uk/safenk

Some flu viruses can cause complications for pregnant women and their babies.

A free vaccination is available to women at all stages of their pregnancy which will help to protect them from flu.

After receiving an invitation for a flu jab, Michelle Marklew chatted about it with her GP first as she’d never been called for one before.

You will be invited for a flu vaccination if you are: • Pregnant • Over 65 • Have a long term health condition (diabetes, asthma, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, kidney and/or liver disease)

“

They explained that certain groups of people can develop serious complications from flu and this includes pregnant women. I didn’t want to put myself or my baby at risk so chose to accept the jab. I’m glad I did, it didn’t even hurt!

8 newsnk Autumn 2011

www.lincolnshire.nhs.uk

in a car, this is a good transition and a better approach to suitable policing.”

During the first weeks of use officers had taken to the bikes very positively, he said, clocking up around 100 miles a week. They had also proved very efficient for getting around more quickly than by car and were universally well received by the public.

The CSP foresees a number of other benefits – reducing dependence on petrol, allowing officers to cover a wider area and importantly aid in the reduction on crime and anti-social behaviour.

CSP Chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher said: “We’re very grateful to have the support of Western Power Distribution and proud to be a part of their ‘keen to be green’ initiative. I have no doubt that having officers back on bikes will have a really positive effect in cutting and resolving crime and will be much appreciated by the community.

Western Power Distribution’s Tracy Carr said supporting initiatives that enable an environmentally-friendly approach to daily activities was one of the key aims of ‘keen to be green’.

“We are delighted to support the NK Community Safety Partnership and wish them well in responding to the needs of the community in this way.”

Kicking a ball about has kept teenagers from kicking their heels during the summer and reduced the incidence of community disorder kicking off

There are many positive side effects from a community project run in Heckington this summer, based on positive engagement and encouragement for young people who are otherwise disaffected by rural boredom.

The Fairplay Football initiative is a tried and tested idea approved by the Home Office which has worked in Heckington before, helping to focus the energies of older teenagers in particular into sporting activity and raising aspirational horizons. It’s also been running in North Hykeham again were there has also been previous success.

Using £400 from the North Kesteven Community Safety Partnership, £200 from Heckington Parish Council and local business’ support, the village scheme has delivered on all of its goals.

Each Thursday night over a couple of months NKDC’s Children’s Services Officer Jade Warren, the Fairplay team and others have spent time with up to 25 young people at Heckington playing fields where the lads have enjoyed a lick-about and the girls have hung-out on the touch-line cheering, jeering and enjoying the summer evenings.

Heckington was chosen as a target for Fairplay for a number of reasons, including high levels of concern over

anti-social behaviour and the sparsity of alternative, positive, distractions like youth clubs and parks.

Throughout the programme incidence of recorded ASB fell when compared with figures for previous months – nine incidents in June compared to 16 and 11 in April and May –as happened during last year’s Fairplay programme.

Meanwhile Jade has been engaging with the young people, attending in all weathers too, to consult on where a new NKDC-funded youth shelter should go to meet their requirements and talking to them about other youth issues.

There’s now a plan to keep Fairplay going beyond the programme’s end.

It’s already won a two-week extension because of its success and two volunteers have stepped forward, but another is desperately needed to ensure the positive outcomes continue.

One aim is for the footballers to continue developing their skills and discipline to form a team and for all participants to be inspired to pursue further education, training or work prospects.

Another is for agencies like NKDC and the parish council to increase and improve the provision of facilities for this age group based on increased mutual and responsible understanding.

Crime in your area A businesses-orientated partnership The Police.UK website allows every resident to research the number of crimes committed in their community.

It also helps you find out who your neighbourhood beat team is and what they are doing to tackle locally-set priorities.

All you need to do is type your postcode in to www.police.uk

The Community Safety Partnership welcomes support from the business community and is keen to continue its innovative partnership between the public and private sectors.

As well as helping to buy the police bikes and set up Fairplay Football firms have joined parish councils in funding other activities to help reduce anti-social behaviour.

The outcome of consultation with the CSP was that businesses felt crime was not a huge problem in North Kesteven.

The only key concern identified at present was metal theft, where the businesses specified a desire for targeted action. Chief Inspector Mark Housley reassured them the police was accutely aware of metal theft as a problem and were working with partners to tackle it.

Heckington’s NKDC Members and parish chairman Cllr Higgs took a particular interest in organising Fairplay Football and attracting the funding from local firms.

Together with parish councillors, District Councillors Stewart Ogden and Andrew Key have attended on Thursday nights and are as impressed with the success seen during the summer as anyone.

“Fairplay Football has really scored on all fronts,” said Cllr Ogden. “It aims to provide positive engagement for young people diverting their energise from something negative like ASB into something positive like sport but it’s delivered so much more in Heckington.

“All of the young people involved have enjoyed a positive engagement with their local councils, realising that we’re here for them as much as for anyone, and they’ve had the chance to share their thoughts, to talk to Jade and other volunteers and to be listened to on many levels.

“I can only urge more people to step forward to ensure the success of the partnership can carry on and it’s positive outcomes are not lost,” he said.

If you think you can help by volunteering call Jade Warren at NKDC on 01529 414155.

Street watch Neighbourhood Watch Schemes are thriving in the District, helping local people to keep on top of criminal activity in their streets.

The Sleaford and District Neighbourhood Watch group is holding its AGM on Thursday, October 6 at 7pm in the District Council offices. All are welcome, but please register by emailing admin@sleafordnhwassoc.info

Violence in NK lowest in country Top ten crime North Kesteven has been officially recognised as having the lowest rate of violent crime in the country.

The Department of Health’s new Health Profiles for English districts highlight a number of indicators to better understand community needs, one of which is violent crime.

Chief Inspector Mark Housley said “Violent crime is found in varied situations such as night-time economy, where it’s fuelled by drink, domestic abuse and violence linked to ASB. “We continue to work across the Partnership with victims and offenders to reduce violence within our community, so it is really positive to have our work on reducing long-term trends of violent crime recognised.

“In 2011 there were 485 incidents of violent crime, reduced from 794 in 2007, which means fewer victims.”

The 2011 Health Profile data shows

that with only 4.6 cases of violent crimes per 1000 population, North Kesteven has the lowest rate in the country, significantly better than the English average of 15.8 per 1000. The worst scoring district had 35.9 violent crimes per 1000 population.

Successes in achieving this include education over ASB and bullying, pro-active work on domestic abuse and the impact of a nightclub closure in Sleaford which reduced drink-fuelled nuisance and showed other licensees the importance of high standards.

CSP Chairman, Cllr Mike Gallagher said, “This builds on our position from late last year as the eighth safest district in England for overall crime but we will not rest on our laurels as the Community Safety Partnership continues to work hard to maintain low crime in North Kesteven by prioritising local problems.”

prevention tips

Look at your house though a burglar’s eyes. If you think your security looks poor, it’s likely that a burglar will too.

If you could break in without being seen or get in if you’ve forgotten your keys then so could a burglar.

Crime is low in North Kesteven and the best way to keep it that way, is to take simple preventative measures to reduce the opportunity for crime to be committed.

The police can not be on every corner but members of the public can, so stay vigilant to stay safe through simple preventative measures this autumn and winter. > Keep your house and car secure, ensure your windows are closed and your doors locked every time you go out. > Close your curtains at night to keep valuables out of sight. > Lock your door once you’re in, to avoid have any unexpected visitors.

Cold-callers can be a pain and a risk, which is why the CSP has funded No > Keep your shed door secure, maybe Cold-call Zones across the District to help protect vulnerable residents. even fit an alarm.

All of the Council’s sheltered housing schemes have been designated, along with > When storing bikes, keep a lock around a number of neighbourhood streets, all in response to local consensus demand. them so they are more difficult to take.

The zones now cover more than 14,000 properties in the District where signs > Don’t keep valuables in your car; if you notify doorstep salesmen that they won’t be received favourably. have to, store them in your boot.

CSP chairman Cllr Mike Gallagher, said, “It’s clear from consultation with residents > When going out in the dark night keep that they want more of these zones, which the partnership will be delivering on that.” a torch in your bag.

The zones are established in association with Lincolnshire Trading Standards, > Keep to well-lit, well-walked paths to part of the Door Step Crime Partnership which does a lot of work to raise awareness stay safe. of doorstep scams. One scam currently being used locally involves cold callers > Join Lincolnshire Neighbourhood pretending to work for the Water Board. Be warned that the Water Board does not Watch scheme to keep up to date with exist, and this may be a cover to enter you house to commit a burglary. your Neighbourhood Beat team.

If you are suspicious about a cold caller, call Lincolnshire Police on 0300 111 0300 > Work with your neighbours in setting or Trading Standards on 01522 782341. up a No Cold Call Zone for your street.

Doorstep ‘cold-calling’ called off

Which street do you prefer?

The Community Safety Partnership has been working with North Kesteven’s Youth Council to develop a graphic illustration of the impact of positive neighbourly participation.

The street scene depiction (pictured left) shows the difference between a street where an active Community Safety Partnership is supported by active residents and another where the complete opposite is the case.

In each scene there’s an identical young person depicted to highlight the fact that most young people are not involved in crime, but are often perceived as the perpetrator.

The CSP will be using the street scene as part of its consultation across the District.

If you are experiencing any problems in relation to crime please do not hesitate to contact Lincolnshire Police emergency number of 999 or the non-emergency number of 0300 111 0300 Autumn 2011 newsnk 9

Our Economy

To encourage economic development, support business growth and develop tourism

Crossing closure is a ‘chance too good to miss’ Rail and road engineers say closure of the rail crossing is essential to enhance public safety and economic regeneration The chance presented by Sleaford’s regeneration plans to remove a key traffic bottleneck is a ‘once in a century’ opportunity which should not be missed.

That’s the view of senior rail and highways engineers who say closure of the Southgate level crossing presents major safety and regeneration benefits.

The current crossing is among the most dangerous in the country and needs to be totally closed, says Network Rail’s scheme sponsor Phil Graham.

The proposal is for the level crossing to be closed to all traffic as soon as the approved new link road bridge running between Mareham Lane and Boston Road is open.

That road will be funded entirely by Tesco as one of the enhancements secured for the town through planning permission. It would not be open for

at least two years and until then the crossing remains in place.

Consultation on Lincolnshire County Council’s replacement footbridge designs prompted a swell of opposition to the crossing closure, but Mr Graham said people needed ‘to trust and believe us that it will be a much safer option for the people of Sleaford’.

“Where ever possible we need to eradicate level crossings on safety grounds and this particular one is high on our risk radar,” he said.

“With everything else that’s happening in the wider plan for Sleaford this is a one in a hundred year opportunity we can’t afford to miss.”

With 10,200 vehicles and 4,500 people using the crossing daily, and the barriers closing for trains on average 48 times a day – potentially up to two and a half hours in total – Mr Graham

Phil Graham (right) Network Rail’s scheme sponsor for the crossing closure discusses plans with Mark Heaton, county council area highways manager says the crossing presents a significant danger and inconvenience to people.

Sleaford’s crossing is particularly dangerous because it is so close to the station with a risk of people vaulting the barriers to access the platform when a train is approaching, as happened in late May when a local man narrowly escaped with his life.

Full road closure and replacement with a footbridge built to accessibility standards for all users, at a gradient of

Siemens signs up for DistrictNK

One of the area’s biggest employers has committed to develop its business in the District.

Siemens has signed a 12-year lease to relocate its gas turbine service arm, currently situated at four different sites within Lincoln, into one high-quality facility at Teal Park which is in North Kesteven alongside the Lincoln bypass.

The company’s detailed planning application was scheduled to be considered by NKDC’s planning committee in early September.

A positive outcome would result in the building

of a £20m 66,000 sq ft complex at Teal Park to accommodate around 540 workers within a year.

Outline consent has already been given and roads and other infrastructure are being put in place for the Siemens’ site to become the foundation stone to Teal Park, where there will be an emphasis on high-quality eco-design and renewable energy features.

The aim is for Teal Park to attract around £500m of business investment over the next 15 years, accommodating around 4,000 jobs.

Scope for change in Hykeham Suggested solutions to identified issues affecting the way people live, work and move around North Hykeham are being worked up through community consultation.

Stakeholders involved in initial discussions over the Scoping Study to identify opportunities for the future development and consolidation of local housing, traffic, business and community pressures, will be invited to a briefing in September to learn more on the first-draft outcomes of the study.

The next stage will be to identify further steps and options which are deliverable in the short term.

Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton, said: ”By developing a greater understanding of today’s pressures within North Hykeham we can be certain of focusing our energies where it has greatest impact. We are no longer dealing with hopes and aspirations but firm findings and outcomes of consultation, facts, figures and definite, identified issues. Knowing exactly what the major issues are, we can work in partnership on making successful resolutions which are appropriate to the community.”

Key areas to address include the wider transport network, infrastructure enhancement, sustaining communities split by the A1434, stronger community spirit and making the most of local assets.

North Hykeham Town and South Hykeham Praish councils, the LN6 business group, Central Lincs Joint planning Unit and city and county councils are engaged with NKDC in finding the right solutions.

10 newsnk Autumn 2011

1:20, eliminates all danger.

In its current state Sleaford’s crossing could not be safer, except for complete separation of people and trains.

“It’s the safety of the people of Sleaford we’re concerned about and keeping a foot crossing is not an option,” said Mr Graham.

“I believe we will be enhancing this part of Sleaford by removing an obstacle that cuts the town in two at least 48 times a day and contributes

significantly to driver frustration.”

Mark Heaton, area highways manager for the county council, said that without the crossing closure an investment of around £100m and wider regeneration of Sleaford would be stifled if not significantly jeopardised.

“This is a major part of the redevelopment jigsaw envisaged for Sleaford and is absolutely key to freeing up traffic movement through the town. Without it, it will be very difficult to realise any of our aspirations for the community.

“Network Rail is visionary in seeing the opportunities presented here. The closure meets both their aspirations in terms of railway safety and ours for highway safety but also the wider aims of Sleaford’s regeneration over the long-term,” said Mr Heaton.

Footbridge designs are being revised in association with Network Rail and NKDC, taking on all comments far and against, to ensure a sustainable and iconic solution.

Pathway project takes a big step forward

Help for your business to improve its environmental credentials and save money

A long-awaited walking and cycling route between two District villages has taken a giant leap towards becoming a reality.

With agreement on all land purchases, subject to contract, and most of the funding for land, construction, signage and seating, now in place, the Carlton and Bassingham Pathway Group expect construction to begin this autumn.

As with the Sleaford to Leasingham route, this is part of the Sustrans Connect2 programme, giving NK two of the 79 schemes to improve local access to safe cycling routes across the UK and extend the national cycle network into the heart of communities.

It has taken the Pathway Group five years to reach this stage, using a package of funding built up through part of Connect2’s £50m Living Landmarks Lottery fund, further Sustrans grant and contributions from Lincolnshire County Council, North Kesteven District Council, the Aggregates Levy Fund and Lincolnshire Cooperative Society’s 150th Birthday Awards.

Group chairman Stan Underwood said: “The Pathway will make a very real difference to the lives of local people, providing for present and future generations of children, their families and older people an independent, safe means of moving on foot, bicycle or mobility scooter between our two villages and venturing easily into the countryside.

It will enable safe, off-road travel between Bassingham and Carlton, making an invaluable contribution to the quality of life of all who use it.”

Sustrans’ scheme manager Nicola Jones, said that one key benefit of the direct traffic-free link between the villages was the provision of a safe route for children to get from Carlton to primary school in Bassingham.

In these belt-tightening times it makes sense for businesses as well as households to cut whatever costs they can – and energy consumption is a great place to start.

The SustainNK team at NKDC offers companies free advice and even a free on-site visit, followed up with a tailored report, to suggest options for improving your sustainability credentials and make financial savings.

They will also highlight where further help is available for those recommendations.

It’s never been a better time to look at how your business could be working more efficiently; energy prices are at record high and continuing to rise while a range of incentive schemes are newly available to help companies adopt renewable and energy efficient measures.

Schemes range from tariffs paid to your business when you install a renewable technology to generate electricity or heat, to tax relief on qualifying capital expenditure for energy efficiency projects.

Help is out there and if you want to improve your energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, reduce water consumption, reduce fuel use in your fleet or even to find registered companies who can dispose of your waste, we can help you find the answers.

At NKDC we’ve been working on projects to reduce our impact on the environment for a number of years. In the last two years we have reduced our carbon footprint by 8.4% which adds up to big financial savings too on annual energy bills of around £1m.

To find out how we can help your business email SustainNK@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155.

To develop plans for the future growth of North Kesteven, including the provision of new communities, affordable housing and community infrastructure

Our Communities Our Homes

New homes offer new way of life for NK families Families settled into life in NKDC’s most environmentally sustainable houses are anticipating rich rewards from the cash and energy saving benefits they offer “The house is great, we feel very lucky,” says Tracy Lindsay whose family of five have taken to life in the Martin straw houses like the proverbial pigs in clover.

Of the many benefits she identifies from being in a house built of straw, the anticipation of a cosy winter without much need to light the woodburning stove, constant hot-water heated by the sun and reduced bills are at the top of the list.

“We’ve not had any bills yet to see how all the energy efficiencies the Council’s built-in are helping, and until we’ve lived through a summer and winter we won’t know for sure, but we’re hoping to achieve a 60% or so saving,” she said.

“Either way, there’s so much we love about being here I don’t think it will matter. The open-plan living and the space is great for the children.”

Neighbour Sharon Watkins and her daughters call themselves the three little pigs in their straw house. “I love everything about it, from the way it’s built and the unusual details inside to the way we’re already saving on water and heating bills,” she said.

“I’m really into recycling and reusing so everything about the house suits me down to the ground. I loved it before I’d even seen it.”

Following on from the pair built at Waddington, these two at West Grove, Martin are even greener.

With lime from Woodhall Spa, straw from Little Hale Fen and all materials including the sheep’s wool insulation and roof-top solar water heating panels sourced from local merchants, the carbon footprint of the two houses has been reduced even further.

In addition, these are the first of the Council’s 46 new houses to feature

Helping hand in tenant’s gardens

Empire’s right for a modern era

A helping hand in the garden is being extended to Council tenants struggling to keep on top of the digging, weeding and care needed to keep a plot tip-top NKDC is trialling the ‘Help with your Garden’ scheme with tenants who cannot manage their gardens due to age or long-term ill-health.

It is being run in association with Hill Holt Wood, with 15 tenants signed up from the outset, at a charge of around £3 per week.

Initially it is being piloted in the North Hykeham and Welbourn areas.

There’s also the Garden Share Scheme which matches up tenants wanting more growing space with those whose gardens are too big for them and want to give some up.

Tenants wanting to know more about either scheme should contact Housing Officers on 01529 414155.

School children who thought up the name Empire Court for a new housing development learned more about the site’s origins.

Inspired by the discovery of Roman archaeology during construction of the six council houses at The Hoplands, Sleaford, children from Kirkby la Thorpe Primary School thought of appropriate names for the new neighbourhood.

The most popular choice was Empire Court, the name now given to the cluster of homes built with disabled and elderly tenants in mind.

Some of the children joined Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for housing, in naming the street.

Cllr Ogden thanked them for their contribution and interest in the past, present and future of their community, which is something the Council actively promotes.

Whilst preparing the site in early

costs for the tenants which is terribly important and what we aim for,” said Council Leader Cllr Marion Brighton OBE, pictured left with Sharon and Rosie Watkins.

All of the straw houses are part of a £6.2m three-phase programme to build-up the Council’s housing stock by 46 new homes, jointly funded by the Council and Government grants.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive member for housing, said the Council rainwater harvesting for flushing worked long and hard on finding a toilets and mechanical heat recovery sustainable answer to the need for to ensure minimal heat loss, as well more housing in the District. as the other environmental benefits “NKDC led by example with these incorporated at Waddington.

In order to ensure maximum benefit straw houses and we continue to for tenants and the most cost-efficient search for the right sites to consider environmental benefit the Council has further straw houses within our new built its homes to Level 4 of the Code build aspirations. It’s also gratifying to for Sustainable Homes, rather than the have other local authorities seeking to learn from our experience and Level 3 stipulated by Government. follow that example,” he said.

“This will ensure cheaper running

Councillor Stewart Ogden and the school party at Empire Court.

2010 contractors unexpectedly unearthed two human skeletons, pottery, personal items and evidence of ditches, roads and at least nine different buildings, all thought to range in age from Iron Age to Roman times.

Headteacher, Susan Bradley said: “The children were inspired by the site’s history and Empire Court seemed fitting. They really enjoyed learning about the history of the area and seeimg some of the archeology.”

Homecoming’s a dream come true

Harry and Sheila Waller’s delight at finally securing their dream home is typical of that shared with 19 other families who have moved into the new council homes built over the last two years.

The couple had been on the housing list for seven years waiting to become a priority for re-housing when suddenly – thanks to the extra capacity opened up through NKDC’s new-build programme – the perfect bungalow came up which met their requirements, based on ill-health, easy maintenance and access.

Their new home at Empire Court, Sleaford, is one of six bungalows commissioned specifically for elderly and disabled tenants.

“Moving here, a huge weight has lifted off our shoulders,” said Sheila.

“We hope we don’t have to move again and that this will be the home we see out the rest of our lives in”.

“Not so long ago we were nowhere near the top of the list so the building of these new homes has obviously helped us and must have helped other families to get settled. When we got the call to say it was available, we jumped at the chance.”

The two-bedroom bungalow is much more spacious than their old home and with sound-proofing against the adjacent railway, solar heating, full support from the Council’s contractors, ‘brilliant and helpful care’ from housing officer Claire Keane and a roomy garden, Harry said they couldn’t have hoped for better. “It was a long wait, but it was worth it,” he said.

Moving empty houses forward as homes Struggling to get on the ladder?

Interest-free loans are now available to help bring empty homes back into use.

The Lincolnshire Empty Homes Project, of which NKDC is a partner, has identified that a key area where owners of long-term empty homes need help is with renovations.

With this in mind, the partnership is offering help and support in a number of ways to ensure privately-owned

empty homes are brought back into use. > Interest-free loans for renovations > Assistance in developing a work programme to ensure optimum safety and energy efficiency standards. > A Social Letting Agency is being piloted to bring together owners wanting to let and people on the waiting list who are in need. > A bespoke management service

offering secure long-term tenancies in a professional and well managed manner.

If you are interested in how any of these schemes can help you to bring a house back into use as a home, or if you have a concern about an empty property near you, call Empty Homes Project Officer Luke Taylor on 01529 308297 or visit www.lincsemptyhomes.org.uk

The Government’s HomeBuy scheme could unlock the door to your first home with a loan of up to 20% for those who can’t otherwise afford to buy The help is available where household income is below £60,000 and a mortgage can be obtained. In North Kesteven it applies at: > Cardinal Grange, North Hykeham (Bloor Homes) > De Vessey Fields, The Greylees (Davidsons) > Burfield Heights, Witham St Hughs (Persimmon) > Roman Fields, Witham St Hughs (Taylor Wimpey) The scheme offers an equity loan of up to 20% on properties up to £280,000.

A 5% deposit and mortgage for at least 80% of the purchase price are required.

Details from East Midlands Homebuy on 0844 892 0112 or www.emhomebuy.co.uk

Autumn 2011 newsnk 11

News Focus

Sustainable ways to generate cash Paper pumpkins Not only can you save money by going green, but get paid Inspire your child’s creativity by crafting for it too with residents, communities and businesses all eligible a Halloween decoration Helping you to make the most of to access incentives for installing cleaner, greener sources your newsnk – here’s a crafty idea of their very own energy for a harmless Halloween happening.

The Government is giving away even more money now to those wanting to generate their own renewable energy.

And by clubbing together in a bulk buying scheme you can enjoy even greater savings which make the switch to solar or other renewable energy options even more affordable.

Through Renewable Heat Incentive Premium Payments (RHIPP) you can claim £300 off solar thermal panels for heating water in all areas.

In places not served by mains gas there are further grants of £850 on airsource heat pumps, £1,250 on ground or water-source heat pumps and £900 for biomass boilers.

This makes the incentive payments perfect for North Kesteven, but they are limited to 25,000 households nationwide so you should hurry ahead of the March deadline. Full details at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk If you and a number of neighbours are all interested in such options, there’s an even greater incentive

With this new edition now with you, why not recycle the last one into this eco-friendly and economic decoration to display in the window or string up along the stairs?

Take one adult, a child or two, paper scissors, an old edition of newsnk, a stapler and string. > Pick the most colourful page and cut into broad strips. Staple or stick strips together to make them longer. > Fold the strip back on itself (like a concertina) so that each section is roughly square shaped. > Draw on the outline of half a pumpkin, making sure that one fold forms the central line and the other fold makes up the side. > Cut out, again making sure that the folded edges remain intact so that each pumpkin stays joined to its neighbour. Whilst still folded up, make a mouth, cutting in from the long folded side, and make an eye with a hole-punch or by taking extra care with scissors. > Unravel the strip to reveal a line of joined together pumpkins.

Hats off to renewable energy incentives to help pay for solar water heating, as installed in the Council’s new-build homes

through community buying schemes.

The pioneering Rauceby Little Footprint Initiative is already looking into it where if around ten people buy solar electric panels at the same time a further discount of 5-15% can be enjoyed.

If you’re thinking of going down the renewables route, get in touch with the SustainNK team at NKDC and they could partner you with others in your community to achieve the savings.

With these incentive payments,

savings in electricity bills and feed-in tariffs scope for beating rising energy charges and making huge savings is better than ever.

The SustainNK team can guide you through the many options, sources of financial and technical support, and provide resources to residents, businesses, schools and groups.

They can be reached on 01529 414155 or sustainnk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

Stamp on post office survival No waste lorries in villages

Home Insulation

North Kesteven District Council’s commitment to its 100 Flourishing Communities is especially evident through work to promote the prosperity of post offices.

A typical example of this partnership approach can be seen in Carlton le Moorland where the parish council has re-instated the post office there.

It closed last December after the retirement of the Subpostmaster and looked likely to go the same way as many other services reduced or withdrawn over the years.

But by allowing the Post Office to use the village hall as a base for a twice-weekly outreach service, the

With winter just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to think about home insulation.

Since a well-insulated house stays cool in the summer as well as warm in the winter, it’s worth looking into the deals presented by the many home insulation schemes on offer.

The HELP scheme backed by NKDC and other councils in Lincolnshire, offers householders chance to insulate their homes at a reduced rate or for free.

Through the HELP scheme, free insulation is available to those on income related benefits and the over 60s while discounted rates of £49 for cavity wall insulation and £79 for loft insulation are available to all other householders.

Up to this Easter it had supported more than 6,000 county homes in reducing energy consumption and bills – with loft insulation cutting costs by £150 a year and cavity wall insulation adding further benefits.

As well as having Council backing, the HELP scheme is supported by the Energy Saving Trust. The only approved companies working on it are Street Energy and Solutions 4 Energy and all canvassers working for HELP have appropriate identification which can be verified by the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512012.

’s t a t Wh cos a? e upp h c t a of

parish council brought it back to life.

Further initiatives under consideration to foster even more communal flourishing is a mini-library where Lincolnshire Library Service drops a box of selected books in to the hall for residents to browse and loan.

There is also a move in the Cliff Villages to secure postal services at Wellingore garage and a similar community-based solution works in Dunston where the village hall becomes the Dunston Hub on two Thursday afternoons per month 2pm - 4pm, featuring a bring and buy section for individuals to sell their own produce.

An assurance has been given by Lincolnshire County Council that lorries servicing the Energy From Waste plant at North Hykeham will be routed on main roads only.

As work progresses on construction of the facility designed to take all landfill rubbish from late 2013 for incineration to produce 11 megawatts of electricity, highways officers have sought to reassure local residents.

Project development team leader Mike Reed told Aubourn Parish Council that HGVs transporting waste between the transfer sites planned for all across the county and the facility at Whisby Road, would steer clear of

Find out how much electricity you use and what every appliance costs to run by taking up NKDC’s offer of a free energy monitor.

For a month you can see what everything costs in cash, energy and environmental impact, which helps to identify where savings can be made Book a monitor for collection at your nearest community access point by emailing sustainNK@n-kesteven,gov.uk or calling 01529 414155.

12 newsnk Autumn 2011

certain areas “I can assure you that the County Council has no intention of routing through such villages as Aubourn and Haddington,” he said.

Although routes would not be determined until 2013 he said they would specify the use of the primary road network which mainly comprises 'A' class roads.

“The vehicles in question cannot operate efficiently on minor roads and we would not allow that to take place unless an emergency situation arose.

At this early stage I can only foresee HGVs in the North Kesteven District Council area using the A46 and A17,” said Mr Reed.

Views on newsnk are called for

Do you have views on newsnk, the newspaper for all residents?

It costs just 16p per edition to produce, print and deliver to each home and business in North Kesteven, and to ensure it meets everyone’s requirements we want you to share your suggestions and ideas for improvements.

Feel free to fill in the survey on the front page of the Council website at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk or for a paper copy, email research@n-kesteven.gov.uk or call 01529 414155.

Active Kids – get fit, get funky!

A new free 12-week programme for 8 to 11 year olds and their families to get fit and active starts in Sleaford in September.

Details from course leader Kate Priestley on 07817 607592 or email partnership_nk@n-kesteven.gov.uk

News Focus

Military personnel honoured on Armed Forces Day

mynk Where do you live?

In a farmhouse near Branston.

How did you end up living there?

My family have been farming at Branston and Potterhanworth for about 150 years. My own career involved working as a land agent from an office in Lincoln and it has been very convenient to live nearby.

People from across the District turned out to pay tribute to military personnel past, present and future.

A highpoint in the week-long programme was the presentation of Veterans’ badges by Group Captain Dave Waddington, Station Commander at RAF Cranwell, in honour of their contribution to the armed services.

The same day also involved talks

by Aviation Historian Mike Hodgson on memorials and the work of the War Graves commission and Gp Capt Waddington on his experiences as a prisoner of war in Iraq.

Winners of the children’s colouring competition were also presented: Kieran Dyke in the 4 – 7 year age group and Jessica Greenfield in the 8 – 12 year age group.

The Armed Forces Day parade through Sleaford drew hundreds of people onto

the streets to see a convoy of vehicles with military connections, regimental band, veterans, serving military and cadets.

Shops in Sleaford entered into the spirit by decorating their windows and businesses across North Kesteven offered special incentives to forces personnel for the period of the Armed Forces Day. Council Chairman Ian Cartwright MBE said; “This year’s Armed Forces Day programme was positively received. It was a pleasure to see such warmth and appreciation being shown to all our forces whether veterans, serving personnel or cadets, who are our forces of the future.”

Armed Forces Day is an annual event honouring the achievements of all military personnel and aims to raise awareness of the achievements of individuals in the Armed Forces.

Name: Robin Battle Job title: Current High Sheriff of Lincolnshire Council’s excellent Stepping Out leaflets, particularly on paths near the Car Dyke. The Stepping Out Walks are all well kept, cover areas teaming with beautiful views, interesting landscape, architectural or archaeological features and the walks are so well written and annotated that you can always be certain of a pleasant and easy walk.

What’s the best thing about where you live? We live in unspoilt countryside with lots of trees and woodland and relatively quiet roads, but only five miles from the centre of Lincoln.

What NKDC service do you appreciate most? We all take many of the services for granted. We particularly appreciate the very efficient collection of fly-tipping, which is an increasing problem in the countryside.

Where would you recommend people to visit in the District?

We enjoy visiting the many superb old churches and walking in the countryside, making use of the

What does North Kesteven mean to you? It is a predominantly rural area, not over-populated, with a good infrastructure, and providing a safe environment for families.

A new website for the Witham Valley Country Park’s offers a virtual one-stop-shop for everything that’s happening in the Country Park.

With a sub-site for children, interactive maps and listings of where to stay, events, wildlife and heritage, it will be invaluable for residents and visitors.

The Country Park is made up of high quality green spaces including Whisby Nature Park, Skellingthorpe Old Wood, Tunman Wood, and North Hykeham’s Millennium Green. Connecting routes make it ideal for walking, cycling, riding and leisure activities.

For a complete list of the Country Park areas and much more, from September 15 you can visit www.withamvalleycountrypark.co.uk

The ins and outs of what goes in the bin Yet again you and other North Kesteven residents are maintaining a recycling rate in excess of 50%, which means that more than half of everything you throw away is put to new use North Kesteven residents have always taken great care with their recycling, but even the most hardened recycler sometimes has to check the list of dos and don’ts on what can and can’t go into which bin.

Officers never cease to be amazed by what residents put into their wheeled bins particularly the green lidded recycling bin.

Examples of the weird and outrageous are shown If you are a new resident just moving into your here. They included an ironing board frame, tents, home and inheriting wheeled bins, they may have tyres, children’s car seats, boulders, dumbbell stickers on them. Some of these stickers date back weights and a brass bell. to 2001 and in all cases the stickers are out of date and should be ignored.

If you have stickers such as these on your bins advising what should or shouldn’t be placed in each bin, please peel them off or even paint over them as some are pretty hard to get off.

Each March the Council sends out a leaflet and magnetic collection calendar with all the information you need to know about what can and what can’t go into each bin and more importantly when to put your bins out for collection.

Hopefully you still have the calendar attached to your fridge, boiler or any other magnetic surface.

Turn it over and refresh yourself of just what can and can’t go into the bins.

Green-lidded recycling bin.

Mixed glass bottles and jars, food tins and aerosols cans, clean foil, newspaper, magazines, directories, paper, cardboard and waxed drink

cartons, textiles, plastic bottles, tops, yoghurt, milk bottles and ice-cream tubs.

Brown wheeled bin Grass, weeds, leaves, clean straw, flowers, plants, twigs and chopped-up real Christmas trees.

Black wheeled bin All other waste that can’t be either composted or recycled, but batteries should be recycled.

If you don’t have the calendar and list detailing this, that’s not a problem You can download the information at www.n-kesteven.gov.uk. Look at the waste and recycling pages in the residents section.

Call us free on 0800 174499 to request one to be posted to you.

Email us at waste@n-kesteven.gov.uk and we will email the information back.

If you are ever in doubt, leave it out as one mistake could contaminate a whole load and jeopardise everyone’s otherwise excellent response to recycling.

l

Aviation Heritage a huge success The Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire visitor programme was a huge hit at this year’s Waddington Airshow.

With more than 145,000 visiting the show, Aviation Heritage was bound to be a hit and its large stand in Hangar 4 proved most popular. Visitors flocked to see a decommissioned Nimrod R1 and learn about local aviation history.

The near-2,000 visitors to the stand also marvelled at the 22 winning aluminium panels from a hugely successful competition to design aircraft nose art and to try their hand at combat flying in Newark Air Museum’s Bulldog simulator trainer.

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the jet engine, a competition to stay at the Petwood Hotel, Woodhall Spa drew more than 500 entrants.

Promotion of Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire’s new Passport scheme to all attractions was also a success, and volunteer staff from the partnership and Newark Air Museum, were kept busy answering aviation related questions and organising visits to the 20-odd sites.

Cllr Stewart Ogden, Executive Member for heritage said: “It was certainly a great effort by all involved and aided in the promotion and enhancement of the Aviation Heritage Lincolnshire brand”.

Autumn 2011 newsnk 13

What’s On

Woodland Walks A new Stepping Out Walk has been added to the network to introduce country lovers to the delights of Hill Holt Wood, near Norton Disney There are already 135 miles of Stepping Out walks detailed in 16 leaflets and after realising how popular the woodland walks are especially, NK Countryside Promotion Officer, Theresa Hobbs worked with the rangers at Hill Holt Wood to create a new circuit around the wood.

Whilst Hill Holt Wood is not a large wood there is so much to see, from the Green Man guarding the entrance to the tepee where you can rest a while. Except in very wet conditions, the good firm paths are suitable for wheelchairs and push chairs.

Hill Holt Wood is a working wood

and very busy during the week so a weekend visit is recommended.

The leaflet gives details of other woodland walks in the area. “We all know the woods are lovely in spring, but autumn is beautiful too, with the leaves changing colour and fantastic fungi appearing from nowhere,” said Theresa.

There’s a woodland wander at Skellingthorpe Old Wood on Sunday, November 27, joining Steve Donagain to discover the diverse flora and fauna.

For details on either, contact Theresa 01522 694353 theresa.hobbs@leisureconnection. co.uk or visit www.countrysidenk.co.uk

Sa Fire lights up Sleaford The finale to one of the county’s largest cultural festivals comes to Sleaford at the end of October.

This will be the third of three spectacular events making up the Sa Fire Festival along the Spires & Steeples art and heritage trail, celebrating what makes the community special.

It is a programme promoted by artsNK as part of the Cultural Olympiad, involving craft workshops and auditions in villages along the trail. These are continuing along with new opportunities to sing and perform music and drama pieces at the Sleaford event.

On October 29, from 6pm – 8pm, visitors will be able to experience Great Art by the Slea Side as the best of British is celebrated in stunning site-specific sculptures, inventive performance, elegant dance, beautiful music, stimulating spaces, pyrotechnics and knitted lanterns.

The trail will include St Denys’

Dancing sessions for all abilities are available in a wide range of dance disciplines through NKDC’s dance development programme run in Sleaford and North Hykeham Contemporary/Creative Youth Dance Classes-open level

Monday 4-5.30pm @ NK Centre (age 12-13 years) Tuesday 4-5.30pm @ Harpers at Sleaford Fitness Club (age 9-14 years) Thursday 4-5.30pm @ NK Centre (age 14-18 years) 5.30-6.30pm @ NK Centre (age 8-11 years) Hip Hop/Street dance Classes

Church, The National Centre for Craft & Design and Cogglesford Mill via the Nettles and the riverside walk.

Details from artsNK at artsNK@leisureconnection.co.uk or 01529 410595.

Ascent instructed sessions

North Kesteven Social Strollers Health Walk Scheme NK Social Strollers have now been running for just over 18 months and the health walks are proving ever popular.

There are now have six weekly health walks in six different locations across the district. All are free to join in with and are a great way of improving/maintaining fitness levels, improving your overall health, socialising and making new friends within your local community.

Join the strollers at your local group: Monday - leaves Billinghay Children’s Centre (LN4 4HU) at 10am Tuesday - leaves Sleaford Leisure Centre (NG34 7ET) at 1.10pm

Wednesday - leaves Whisby Natural World Centre (LN6 9BW) at 11.30am Wednesday - leaves All Saints Parish Church, Ruskington (NG34 9EL) at 1.30pm Thursday - leaves Duke of Wellington Pub, Leasingham (NG34 8JS) at 11am Friday - Metheringham Library (LN4 3DZ) at 11am Twenty members of the scheme recently took advantage of a free opportunity to walk the seven-mile route around Rutland Water. It was a fantastic day out, courtesy of Billinghay Health Walk’s Roger Gill who led the group. Due to this success more events will be arranged throughout the year.

For more information, or if you would like a health walk setting up in your local community please contact Donna Lill on 01522 870252 or email NKHealthandSports@leisureconnection.co.uk

14 newsnk Autumn 2011

The Ascent climbing wall at the NK Centre in North Hykeham is enabling hardened climbers and recreational rookies to scale new heights in the sport.

The indoor facility is available for private hire, casual climbing and instructed sessions.

Use of kit is included in the £4.10 fee for instructed sessions that take no more than 12 climbers on Monday and Wednesday 4.30-6.30pm and Friday 7.30-9.30pm. These are for ages 5 to 19 and can be booked on 01522 883311.

The wall, designed by industry leaders, is also available for climbers to use on a paired basis.

All participants must complete

a BMC declaration of competence and must be able to tie appropriate climbing knots, fasten harness and helmet safely and securely and manually belay a climber safely.

The price for this, inclusive of harness, helmet and belay device, is £5 for any climber.

The facility can also be booked exclusively for parties, team building, clubs or corporate days.

Sessions last 90 minutes and cost from £75 to £125 plus VAT. They are inclusive of instruction and equipment, for up to 18 participants on any day.

For more information and booking, call the NK Outreach Team on 01522 870252 or email nkyouthoutreach@ leisureconnection.co.uk

Be inSpired for challenge There is still time to pledge your support for the annual Spires & Steeples Challenge, by volunteering your help or participating in the event on Sunday October 16.

This fourth challenge has received strong support from the local community and participation pledges from across the District and the country.

Running along the route of the arts and heritage trail between Lincoln and Sleaford there are options to run or walk 13 or 26 miles.

Firms including Lincolnshire Co-op, Tesco, Dancing in the Street and Ray Butler Ltd have already offered sponsorship and local volunteer marshals have stepped forward, while

Sleaford Rotary has offered to run a soup kitchen at the finish, where David Mckee will be setting up a massage table.

On October 16, walkers can leave from Lincoln Castle at 8.30am or from Metheringham at 9.30am, the same time as the 26 mile run starts at Lincoln.

There are five checkpoints along the route which can be seen, along with further information at: www.spiresandsteeples.com Entry costs £12 in advance and £15 on the day, limited to 1,000 places.

Entry through Clare Kelham on 07962214433 or e-mail thewellorganisedoffice@ virginmedia.com

Tuesday 3.30-4.45pm @ NKCentre (Intermediate level, 10+ years) 4.45-5.45pm @ NKCentre (Beginners level, 10+years) Wednesday 6-7pm @ Harpers at Sleaford Fitness Club (Beginners level, 10+ years) kNacKer’d Youth Dance Company- advanced level

Wednesday 4-6pm @ NKCentre

Fresh 101 Company Class advanced level

Wednesday 4-6pm @ Harpers at Sleaford Fitness Club All classes cost £2.50/£3 per week in term time only.

Details from Amy Dalton on 01529 411197 or amy.dalton@ leisureconnection.co.uk

Have you got an object that tells a story?

You can have an object of yours that tells a story of broken dreams could be exhibited at the National Centre for Craft & Design.

In January the main gallery will become The Museum of Broken Relationships and your contributions of random ephemera relating to, or representing, the end of a ‘relationship’ is invited.

Items need not have any worth in the traditional sense, as it’s the status accrued because of who it relates to and what it represents, that matters.

The accompanying story needs to be told too – but it can all be treated confidentially.

To discuss your contribution to ‘The Museum of Broken Relationships’ contact the exhibitions team on 01529 308710, exhibitions@ nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk

What’s On

Autumn is a season for colour and light

North Hykeham’s Terry O’Toole Theatre celebrates its tenth birthday and The Hub gets a new name National Centre for Craft & Design

Navigation Wharf, Sleaford. Further details on 01529 or www.thehubcentre.info

tales with storyteller Sophie Brazilian bites. Tickets: £8, £7, £5, £20 for family.

Snell for all ages. Tickets Plexus no. 10: Materialising the structure of light £8, £7, £5 & £20.

The National Centre for Craft & Design presents Gabriel November 23, 7 – 8pm Dawe’s UK premiere with the awe-inspiring Plexus series Creative holography October 29, 1pm – 2pm - the largest structure he has ever attempted.

Andrew Pepper, an artist Meet the artist Gabriel Giant veils of disorientating colour and line stretch from and lecturer in fine art, Dawe Special events floor to ceiling to create an immersive environment into explores the way artists Gallery talk and tour with Special events and which visitors can walk for the full experience. use holography to capture Gabriel Dawe learning workshops complement this Dawe leads a gallery tour and talk on Saturday, October and manipulate objects about the issues that season’s exhibitions and 29, 1-2pm (£4 & £3). Join him to create new colour which are not ‘there’. influence his work. challenge you in thought installations to transform Sleaford for the Sa Fire festival Tickets: £4 & £3 Tickets: £4 & £3 provoking and fun ways. that night, details from ruth.pigott@leisureconnection.co.uk 6 – 8pm Workshops September 25, 10am – 4pm Sa Fire Festival of Light Colour, light, pyrotechnics, Sunday, October 2, A Ride Out and leather heritage of Oct 22 to Jan 15 10am-3.30pm Linked to Formula Fashion, drama, dance, music, Northamptonshire.

Experiment in Shape & Each special commission is at Navigation Wharf there’s craft and installations from Weaving the world Interplanetary Music around us with Liz Rance. professional artists and influenced by the technology, a hog roast and mass Musically-inspired graphic Tickets £25 display of bikes, bodywork the local community. A work by DJ and visual artist design, iconography and graphic design demos and dramatic fire finale. Free. culture of motorsport.

Victoria Topping interjects Saturday, October 8, a ride out to Tattershall Exhibits include a pair life and colour during these 11am – 4pm November 2, 6 – 7pm Castle’s Dark Materials of leather dresses inspired cold and dark months.

Introduction to Crafted for Speed exhibition linking heritage, by the Silverstone racing Called ‘hallucinogenic, Patchwork with Wendy Lecture by David art and bike culture. vivid, unabashed and funky’, track, a bespoke shoe Bentley. Tickets £25 Brisbourne, Course capturing cutting-edge motor Topping’s vibrant designs Director of Automotive vehicle engineering and an October 1, 11am – 4pm explores jazz, funk, disco Sunday, October 16, Industrial Design at and soul music, modernist art intricately hand-cut, leather Celebrate!

10am – 3.30pm Coventry School of Art & Experience the new and architecture, traditional jacket decorated with past Fun Weaving Workshop Design, on the exciting wallpaper, textile design and Formula 1 winners’ names. developments at The and dynamic use of craft in with Liz Rance. Tickets £25 National Centre for Craft pagan symbols.This is shown automotive design. Tickets: & Design for the first in the window space.

Nov 12 to Jan 8 Sundays £4 & £3. time. Live music from Jewels from Brazil Nov 6 to Dec 4, 2– 4pm My Sad Captain, craft Sept 24 to Nov 6 Precious stones and Silver Jewellery Making demonstrations, family fun November 19, 6.30pm Formula Fashion metals such as gold and with Christine Goldschmidt.

– 7.30pm and 8.15pm – workshops from 2pm.

Innovative design silver, Amazonian tree Tickets £25 per session.

9.15pm inspired by motor seeds, palm fibres, river Sizzling Samba sport Art, motorsport fish leather and the unique October 27, 6 – 7pm Go Dance Studios deliver a December workshops are Spooky Storytelling golden grass found in and leather collide to sizzling night of samba and detailed in the brochure.

An evening of Halloween the heart of the country celebrate the motorsport combine through Brazilian design, inventiveness and ingenuity to illustrate the diversity and originality of artistic talent.

October 22 to January 15

New name, new focus for National Centre The National Centre for Craft & Design’s status as England’s largest venue entirely dedicated to the exhibition, celebration and promotion of contemporary and international craft and design is being recognised through a new focus.

From October 1, the building previously known as The Hub will open under its new brand. Alongside new initiatives like the Learning Zone and ExChange Space and an improved retail offering, the same degree of excellence continues.

With three exciting exhibition spaces; a stimulating programme of workshops, talks, conferences and demonstrations; a tempting retail space stocking the latest contemporary handmade craft; and a delectable licensed café; there is something for everyone at The National Centre for Craft & Design.

It is part of the Lincolnshire One Venues network of arts venues across the county dedicated to delivering the very best in arts & culture.

Text LOV to 88802 to keep up to date with SMS.

Terry O’Toole Theatre Sunday, Sept 4, 7pm Reading Group – running at 7pm on the first Sunday of each month. Call for details of the chosen book.

Thursday, Sept 15, 7.30pm PIAF - Eve Loiseau sings the songs of Edith Piaf with a narrative thread approaching the stars 50th anniversary.

Tickets £12.50, £10 & £5 Friday, Sept 16, 7.30pm A Hard Act To Follow - A witty comedy of one-upman-ship, comic timing and morality.

Tickets £10, £8 & £32 for families Sunday, Sept 18, 7pm Open Mic – A showcase for local talents.

North Kesteven Centre, North Hykeham. Booking on 01522 870251 or www.terryotooletheatre.org.uk

Email charlie.kemp@ leisureconnection.co.uk or call 07766 422682 to take part.

Saturday, Sept 24, 3pm The Last Miner Puppetry, light and an innovative soundscape to tell an amazing tale of hiding away.

Tickets £5, £18 for families Sunday, Sept 25, 3pm Summer Concert Students of Heather Benson, Crawford Thomson and other local music teachers perform their annual concert.

Tickets £3

Once Upon a Time in the Wild West, performed January 17 - 21. Technical skills required too. Age guide 11 years+ Saturday, Oct 1, 7.30pm The Band of RAF Waddington in Concert – a nautical programme in aid of the RNLI. Tickets £8.50 & £6.50 Sunday, Oct 2, 7pm Reading Group. Book choice: Waterland by Graham Swift.

Thursday, Oct 6, 7.30pm Eduardo Niebla Experience - jazz, world music and flamenco given a unique treatment by a Sunday, Sept 25, 3pm – master. A must for guitar 5pm fans.

Open auditions for the community theatre panto Tickets £12, £10 & £5

Wednesday, Oct 12, 7.30pm BJ Cole and Emily Burridge In Concert virtuoso improv cellist joins the UK’s most respected and recorded pedal steel guitarist BJ Cole in an adventurous programme.

Tickets £10, £8 & £5 Thursday, Oct 13, 7.30pm Memoirs of a Biscuit Tin - A topsy-turvy tale for grown-ups using clowning, visual theatre and puppetry.

Tickets £9, £7 & £5.

Age 12+ Friday, Oct 14, 7.30pm Take On Take That – Four extremely talented performers take on the roles of Gary, Mark, Howard and Jason

performing some of the greatest songs of our generation.

A Chernobyl Children’s Lifeline charity event.

Tickets £15 & £12 Sunday, Oct 16, 7pm TOTT open-mic. As September 18 Thursday, Oct 20, 7.30pm Matters of Life & Death Re-imagining a key scene from Graham Swift’s novel Waterland, through dance.

Tickets £9, £7 & £5.

Saturday, Oct 22, 3pm Wolf Tales – using puppetry, shadows and song to create a spectacular and hilarious exposé of the truth behind classic fairy tales for the whole family. Age 5+ Tickets £5 & £18 for families

Sunday, Nov 6, 7pm September 18.

Reading Group – Call for details of the chosen book. Saturday, Nov 26, 3pm Voyage of the Thursday, Nov 17, NutJellyNana – An out7.30pm of-this-world journey with John Etheridge – A world amazing puppets, fabulous storytelling, inspired premiere for respected silliness and salutes to sciJazz/rock/fusion who fi classics! Age 4+ enters new territory with Tickets £5 & £18 for a a totally improvised family performance.

Tickets £12, £10 & £7 Multi-show ticket offers are available at a Sunday, Nov 20, 7pm discounted rate.

TOTT open mic – as

Autumn 2011 newsnk 15

?

Something

Missing

A lack of affordable rural housing means Lincolnshire people can’t afford to live where they want.

We’re doing something about it.

www.livinglincs.org.uk